Monolithic Clockwork Pivot with Elastic Shock Absorber
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manufacturing of clockwork pivots is costly due to the high number of components and precise machining requirements, and conventional solutions face challenges with lubrication, assembly, and shock absorption in watch mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A clockwork plate with integrated pivots made from monolithic micro-components using advanced manufacturing techniques like MEMS and LIGA lithography, incorporating elastic shock absorbers made from materials like silicon or diamond, which reduces the number of components and eliminates lubrication needs while providing precise repositioning and damping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional multi-component pivot structures with separate stones and anti-shock devices are used, then shock absorption and lubrication functions are provided, but the number of components increases and manufacturing cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple pivot components (guide stone, front stone, anti-shock device, and plate) into a single monolithic component made from micro-machinable material. The guide portion, front portion, and elastic shock absorber are integrated into one piece, eliminating the need for separate stones and chatons while maintaining all necessary functions including shock absorption and guidance.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional pivot structures with multiple separate components are used, then specific functions (guiding, shock absorption) are achieved, but machining precision requirements increase and manufacturing becomes more costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical machining of pivot components with micro-machining technologies such as LIGA lithography and MEMS fabrication processes. These technologies use photoresist layers, X-ray lithography, and electroplating to create precise micro-structures directly, eliminating the need for complex mechanical machining operations and manual assembly.
3Reliability
If conventional pivot designs with separate anti-shock devices and stones are used, then shock protection is provided, but assembly complexity and mounting care requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-shock device is integrated directly into the monolithic pivot structure as an elastic element connecting the guide portion to the plate. This eliminates the need for separate anti-shock components and their complex mounting procedures, while the elastic material provides continuous shock protection throughout the pivot's operational life.
4Ease of operation
If conventional pivot structures with multiple components and lubrication systems are used, then lubrication is provided for smooth operation, but additional components (oilers) and maintenance requirements are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The monolithic pivot structure with its integrated elastic shock absorber and precise micro-machined surfaces is designed to operate without external lubrication systems. The elastic material provides inherent damping, and the precision-machined contact surfaces minimize friction, eliminating the need for separate oilers and lubrication maintenance.
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 reduces the complexity and cost of manufacturing, ensures precise center distances, and provides effective damping and zero friction, enhancing the reliability and accuracy of clockwork mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
comprises at least one elastic shock absorber acting on at least said first guide of revolution or/and said second front guide
Data Source
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AI summary
The pivot (45) has a rotation guide (46) for radially holding a shaft (47) in a plate (2), and a front guide (49) for axially limiting an end of the shaft. An elastic shock absorber (48) acts on the rotation guide and/or the front guide. The elastic shock absorber is formed as a unitary part, made from micromachinable material or silicon or quartz or diamond and provided with a structural element that is separated from the rotation guide. The elastic shock absorber is produced in a single-piece way with the frontal guide. An independent claim is also included for a timepiece plate.