Monolithic Escapement Anchor via MEMS Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mechanical watch movement modules do not effectively reduce the number of components, leading to increased production costs and complex assembly processes, particularly in the distribution of energy within the escapement mechanism.
Innovation Solution
The development of monolithic components, such as silicon-based cassettes with integrated elastic return means, which form a one-piece escapement mechanism with reduced parts, ensuring precise center distances and simplified assembly, utilizing micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) and LIGA technologies for manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional modular sets are used for escapement mechanism, then mass production is enabled, but the number of components remains high and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components (anchor, pallet fork, spring horns, and plate) into a single monolithic component manufactured using MEMS technology. This integration eliminates the need for separate parts and their associated assembly operations, thereby reducing component count while maintaining mass production capability through standardized monolithic manufacturing processes
2Productivity
If conventional modular sets are used for escapement mechanism, then mass production is enabled, but assembly complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple components into a single monolithic structure, the patent eliminates complex assembly operations required in conventional modular systems. The monolithic component is manufactured as one integrated piece using MEMS processes, thereby simplifying the manufacturing workflow and reducing assembly complexity while preserving mass production efficiency
3Device complexity
If monolithic components are used, then the number of components is reduced and assembly is simplified, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical manufacturing methods with MEMS (micro-electromechanical systems) technology. MEMS processes provide inherent micrometric precision in fabricating the monolithic component, ensuring accurate center distances and geometric relationships without requiring post-manufacturing adjustment or assembly operations
4Reliability
If conventional components with friction and wear are used, then lubrication is required, but with flexible guides and monolithic construction, friction and wear are minimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical components with separate moving parts with a monolithic integrated structure manufactured using MEMS technology. This substitution eliminates interfaces between separate parts, thereby minimizing friction and wear while removing the need for lubrication. The advanced manufacturing technology, while complex, enables this friction-free operation through precise monolithic construction
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 approach reduces assembly complexity, ensures high precision, minimizes friction and wear, and lowers production costs by creating a ready-to-use mechanism with guaranteed accuracy and reduced component count, facilitating easier integration and adjustment of energy distribution in the escapement mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
under the action of at least one hairspring or a alternating elastic return means
Implementation Method 2
the advantages of which are: guaranteed accuracy; a very low or even zero level of friction
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~8
AI summary
The mechanism has an anchor (61) integral with a lower plate (2). The anchor is connected to the plate by an elastic return unit (65). The mechanism cooperates with a regulator or a balance wheel, which is driven in a reciprocating motion under action of the elastic return unit. The mechanism is pivoted in the lower plate. The mechanism forms a non-detachable integral component (20) with the lower plate. The anchor is located between the lower plate and a bridge (3), and includes an upper part (62) carrying pallets.