Phase-Change Watch Bracelet Structure for Thermal Comfort
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional watch bracelets are prone to detachment due to the use of different materials stitched or bonded together, lacking sufficient personalization and decoration options, and do not effectively manage temperature regulation.
Innovation Solution
A bracelet design featuring an encapsulated phase-change material as a flexible intermediate layer between two strips, which can absorb or release heat based on temperature, combined with elastomer composites for improved durability and customization, and micro-perforations for enhanced heat conduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If different materials are stitched or bonded together to make a bracelet, then the bracelet can provide structural support and durability, but the parts become detached over time and the assembly does not allow sufficient personalisation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple materials (elastomer, leather, fabric) into a single integrated bracelet structure without stitching or bonding interfaces. The materials are combined at the molecular level through co-extrusion or lamination processes, creating a unified piece that eliminates detachment issues while maintaining the functional benefits of each material.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite materials where elastomer, leather, and fabric are combined in a multi-layer construction. The elastomer base layer provides durability and flexibility, while leather and fabric layers are integrated through co-extrusion or adhesive lamination to create a unified composite structure that maintains structural integrity without traditional joining methods.
2Strength
If an insert is added to provide mechanical and flexible function, then the bracelet structure is reinforced, but the thickness of the bracelet increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the insert functions directly into the bracelet body through multi-layer construction. The elastomer, leather, and fabric layers work together to provide both structural reinforcement and flexibility without requiring a separate insert component, thereby maintaining the original thickness profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies different materials with specific properties to different regions of the bracelet. The elastomer provides flexibility in areas requiring movement, while leather and fabric provide structural reinforcement in areas needing strength, creating a locally optimized structure that maintains overall thinness.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional materials are used for the bracelet, then the manufacturing process is simple, but temperature regulation and personalisation options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates phase-change materials (PCMs) into the elastomer base layer to provide temperature regulation functionality. The PCMs undergo phase transitions at specific temperatures, absorbing or releasing heat to regulate the microclimate between the skin and bracelet. This is achieved through modified extrusion or lamination processes that integrate PCM-containing layers without fundamentally changing the manufacturing approach.
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 design provides a robust, customizable bracelet that maintains thickness while offering temperature regulation and improved durability, even in wet conditions, through closely bonded materials.
Implementation Method 1
the flexible intermediate layer being formed by at least one encapsulated phase-change material having a transition temperature of between 0° C. and 40° C.
Implementation Method 2
the lower strip comprises micro-perforations
Data Source
AI summary
A bracelet including an upper strip and a lower strip forming at least one strand of the bracelet, the bracelet includes a flexible intermediate layer disposed between the upper strip and the lower strip, the flexible intermediate layer being formed by at least one encapsulated phase-change material having a transition temperature of between 0° C. and 40° C.