Pivoting Link Mechanism for Ceramic Watch Bracelet Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manufacturing tolerances in ceramic watch components due to sintering processes result in dimensional uncertainties and play between watch cases and bracelets, making it difficult to achieve a satisfactory and aesthetically pleasing connection, especially for larger dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical link system with a first hollow element and a second element that nests inside, allowing for adjustment via a pivoting mechanism to compensate for manufacturing tolerances, enabling precise alignment and an uninterrupted join between the bracelet and watch case without manual finishing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual machining is performed after sintering to compensate for tolerances, then manufacturing precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable adjustment mechanism that allows the bracelet link to be dynamically positioned relative to the watch case. The link can be adjusted along the longitudinal axis to compensate for dimensional variations, transforming a static connection into a dynamic one that adapts to manufacturing tolerances without requiring post-sintering machining.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the positional parameter of the bracelet link relative to the watch case through the adjustment mechanism. By allowing the link to move along the longitudinal axis, the system compensates for dimensional variations in ceramic components, achieving precise alignment without manual machining while maintaining high productivity.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual machining is performed after sintering to achieve precise joins, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism introduces controlled movement to the bracelet link assembly, allowing it to be positioned precisely relative to the watch case. This dynamic adjustment simplifies the overall process by eliminating the need for complex manual machining operations while achieving precise joins through mechanical adjustment rather than subtractive manufacturing.
3Shape
If ceramic components are made with larger dimensions, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to sintering shrinkage
Solution Approach 1:
For larger ceramic components where sintering shrinkage causes greater dimensional variations, the patent employs an adjustment mechanism that allows the bracelet link to be dynamically positioned. This compensates for the increased tolerance range in large-dimension components, maintaining aesthetic appearance while accommodating the reduced manufacturing precision inherent in sintering processes.
Data Source
AI summary
System for connecting a bracelet to a watch case by means of a link, the watch case comprising a caseband and a back cover, the link comprising a first hollow element and a second element partly nesting in the first hollow element, the first hollow element carrying a first means of fastening to the watch case and the second element carrying a second means of fastening to an adjacent bracelet link, characterized in that the watch case includes a mechanical device arranged to pivot the second element about a transverse axis to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, the second element transmitting the pivoting motion thereof to the first element which pivots in turn and which is pressed against the caseband of the watch case.