Multifunctional Corrector Device for Timepiece Function Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional timepieces require multiple correctors and complex mechanisms for selecting and modifying functions like time setting, winding, and additional features, leading to increased complexity, risk of non-watertightness, and aesthetic drawbacks.
Innovation Solution
A multifunction corrector device with a single external control member, comprising a control crown, pusher, and integral control rod with a transmission pinion and planet wheel, allowing function selection and modification through a single control member by rotating the control crown and pressing the pusher, without moving the control rod in translation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple correctors and push-buttons are added to the case middle to enable additional functions, then the functionality and versatility of the timepiece is improved, but the device complexity and risk of non-watertightness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single control member (control crown with integrated pusher) that performs multiple functions: selecting different correction modes, activating corrections, and winding the movement. This universal control mechanism eliminates the need for multiple separate correctors and push-buttons, thereby maintaining full functionality while significantly reducing device complexity and potential failure points
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the control crown and pusher into a single integrated control member, and combines multiple correction functions (time, date, time zone) into one operational interface. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components on the case middle, simplifying the overall device structure while preserving all necessary corrective capabilities
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pushers are added to the case middle to enable additional functions, then the versatility of the timepiece is improved, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The single control member serves as a universal interface for all correction operations, eliminating the need for multiple visible pushers on the case middle. This approach maintains full functionality while preserving a clean, elegant aesthetic by avoiding the cluttered appearance that would result from multiple buttons
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the selection and activation functions into a single control member with a unified design, the invention maintains aesthetic harmony while providing access to multiple functions, avoiding the visual disruption that would occur with multiple separate pushers
3Ease of operation
If the control rod is moved in translation to switch to winding function, then the winding operation can be performed, but the number of manipulations required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the winding function with the time correction function by allowing both operations to be performed through the same control member without requiring translational movement between positions. The user can switch between winding and correction modes simply by pressing the integrated pusher, eliminating the need for additional manipulation steps
Solution Approach 2:
The control member is designed as a universal interface that handles both winding and time correction functions through a single operational paradigm (rotation plus pusher press), eliminating the need for separate operational modes or additional manipulation steps that would increase the number of actions required
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
Enables easy operation of multiple functions like time setting, winding, and date indication using a single control member, reducing the complexity and aesthetic impact while maintaining watertightness.
Implementation Method 1
a planet wheel, mounted free in rotation coaxially with the link member, and carrying at least one satellite gear wheel mounted free in rotation, the satellite gear wheel being arranged with respect to the link member so as to always cooperate with the second toothing of the connecting member
Implementation Method 2
a device for locking the planet carrier wheel arranged to be controlled by the pusher, said locking device comprising clamps capable of being placed in the notches to lock the planet carrier wheel and to disengage from the notches to release the planet wheel
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The device (1) has a planet-carrier wheel blocking device with clamps that are placed in notches of a planet-carrier wheel (20) to block the wheel and disengaged from the notches to release the wheel. An star wheel actuating unit is controlled by a push button such that pressure on the push button allows displacement of a planet (22) to position the planet with respect to function correctors (24 -26) e.g. time setting correctors, corresponding to a function selected by a middle (2) among functions, to activate and/or modify the function via rotation of a push piece integrated crown. The star wheel actuating unit includes a control latch (30) actuated by the push button and a control lever (32) that cooperates with the control latch. The blocking device includes a hammer actuated by the push button.