Oscillating Winding Mass with Embedded Decoration for Movement Visibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing self-winding watches with transparent backs are aesthetically hindered by the oscillating winding weight, which obstructs the view of the movement and lacks visually appealing decorative elements.

Innovation Solution

An oscillating winding mass with a decorative element integrated into the main element, comprising superimposed parts and amorphous metal, allowing the decorative element to be embedded within the mass for enhanced aesthetics and visibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If a conventional oscillating winding mass is used in a self-winding movement, then the movement can be automatically wound, but the winding mass obstructs the view of the movement through the transparent back

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic winding functionVSAvoidvisibility area of movement
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies porous or mesh-like material to the oscillating winding mass, allowing light to pass through and the movement to be observed while maintaining the functional mass of the winding weight. This resolves the contradiction by making the winding mass partially transparent rather than solid, thus preserving both automatic winding capability and visual observability through the transparent back.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #31Porous materials

2Area of stationary object

If the oscillating winding mass is made transparent or with open patterns, then the view of the movement is improved, but the aesthetic appeal and branding visibility are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisibility area of movementVSAvoidaesthetic appearance and brand visibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines transparent or mesh-like material with decorative elements such as logos, brand acronyms, or ornamental patterns integrated into the winding mass. This composite approach allows the movement to be observed through the transparent portions while simultaneously displaying aesthetic decorations and branding, thus resolving the contradiction between visibility and aesthetic appeal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Shape

If decorative elements are engraved or colored on the oscillating winding mass, then aesthetic appeal is improved, but the color deteriorates over time and visibility of the movement is still obstructed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic appearanceVSAvoiddurability of decorative elements
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of using surface engraving or coloring that deteriorates, the patent incorporates decorative elements as integral parts of the porous/mesh structure of the winding mass itself. The decorations are formed within the material structure rather than applied on the surface, making them permanent and non-fading while maintaining the transparency needed for movement visibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #31Porous materials

4Shape

If a solid oscillating winding mass is used, then the aesthetic decoration can be applied, but it obstructs the view of the movement and reduces the overall attractiveness

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic appearanceVSAvoidoverall attractiveness and manufacturing simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs porous or mesh-like material for the oscillating winding mass, which inherently provides both aesthetic appeal and visibility. The porous structure itself creates an attractive visual pattern while allowing movement observation, eliminating the need for separate decoration processes and solid material construction, thus simplifying manufacturing while enhancing overall attractiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #31Porous materials

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 integrated decorative element enhances the aesthetic appeal of the winding mass and provides unobstructed viewing of the movement, offering a more attractive and visually appealing timepiece design.

Implementation Method 1

the main element comprising amorphous or at least partially amorphous metal, preferably in its entirety

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAmorphous metal:

Implementation Method 2

the decorative element comprises metallic foam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMetallic foam: Metal Foam

Implementation Method 3

the heavy part comprises amorphous or at least partially amorphous metal of high density, preferably in its entirety

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHigh density amorphous metal:

Data Source

PatentEP3879354B1Oscillating winding mass provided with a decorative element for automatic movement of a timepiece
Publication Date: 2025.07.30 THE SWATCH GRP RES & DEVELONMENT LTD
  • EP3879354B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2

AI summary

The invention relates to an oscillating winding weight (1) for a timepiece movement, said oscillating winding weight (1) being intended to be mounted for rotation on an axis of the movement, said weight (1) comprising a main element (2) giving the oscillating winding weight (1) its general shape, and a weighting portion enabling the oscillation of the weight (1) in response to the movement of the timepiece and the force of gravity. The weight (1) includes a decorative element (3), for example a logo or emblem, the decorative element (3) being attached to the main element (2), the main element (2) comprising two superimposed parts (4, 5) assembled together, the decorative element (3) being held by at least one end (11) embedded in the material of the main element (2).