Mechanical Oscillator Regulation Using Self-Powered Load Pump Braking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing timepiece technologies face challenges in achieving precise electronic regulation of mechanical oscillators without disrupting their operation, leading to inefficiencies in energy consumption and potential parasitic time drifts.
Innovation Solution
A timepiece design incorporating a mechanical resonator with an electromechanical transducer that converts mechanical power into electrical power, using an electromagnetic assembly to generate induced voltage signals, and a load pump system to manage energy storage and release, allowing for continuous operation and minimal energy consumption during regulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electronic regulation is applied to correct time drift of mechanical oscillator, then timekeeping precision is improved, but energy consumption increases and parasitic time drift occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The regulation system applies periodic electromagnetic braking impulses to the mechanical oscillator only when time drift correction is needed, rather than continuous operation. The system measures time drift periodically and applies corrective braking impulses at specific moments in the oscillator cycle, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical oscillator itself serves as the power source for the electronic regulation system through electromagnetic induction. The oscillator's mechanical energy is converted to electrical energy during oscillation, which then powers the electronics that regulate it, creating a self-sustaining system that minimizes external energy requirements.
2Measurement precision
If electromagnetic braking is applied to regulate mechanical oscillator frequency, then time drift is corrected, but parasitic time drift is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system measures the time drift of the mechanical oscillator before applying corrective braking. By anticipating the needed correction and applying braking at the optimal moment in the oscillation cycle, the system corrects frequency accuracy while minimizing disruptive effects that would cause parasitic time drift.
Solution Approach 2:
The regulation system continuously monitors the mechanical oscillator's time drift and uses this feedback to adjust the timing and magnitude of electromagnetic braking impulses. This closed-loop control ensures corrections are applied precisely when needed, reducing parasitic effects while maintaining frequency accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If continuous electronic regulation is implemented, then timekeeping precision is maintained, but mechanical oscillator operation is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous electronic regulation, the system applies electromagnetic braking periodically and intermittently only when time drift correction is required. This periodic approach maintains precision when needed while allowing the mechanical oscillator to operate undisturbed during normal operation, preserving its natural operation and reliability.
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 enables precise electronic regulation of mechanical oscillators with minimal energy consumption and reduced parasitic time drifts, ensuring accurate timekeeping and efficient self-powering of the regulation system.
Implementation Method 1
an electromechanical transducer arranged to be able to convert mechanical power from the mechanical oscillator into electrical power... this electromagnetic transducer being formed by an electromagnetic assembly comprising at least one coil... and at least one magnet... the electromagnetic assembly being arranged so as to be able to supply an induced voltage signal
Implementation Method 2
an electric converter connected to the two output terminals of the electromechanical transducer so as to be able to receive an induced electric current from this electromechanical transducer, this electric converter comprising a power supply capacitor arranged to be able to store the electrical energy supplied by the electromechanical transducer
Data Source
AI summary
A timepiece includes a mechanical movement with a mechanical oscillator and an electronic device for regulating the medium frequency of this mechanical oscillator. It includes an electromagnetic transducer and an electric converter which includes a power supply capacitor for powering the regulation circuit. The electromagnetic transducer is arranged to supply a voltage signal exhibiting first voltage lobes in first half-alternations and second voltage lobes in second half-alternations of the oscillations of the mechanical oscillator. The regulating device includes a load pump arranged to store momentarily electric loads which are extracted selectively in different time zones according to a time drift detected in the functioning of the mechanical oscillator relative to an auxiliary oscillator, particularly quartz-based. The electric loads extracted are rendered after a certain delay to the power supply capacitor also according to the time drift detected.