Retractable Pivot Watch Bracelet Link Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for attaching and detaching watch bracelets without tools are difficult to handle due to small or complex mechanisms, leading to risks of untimely retraction and handling difficulties.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising adjacent links with a bar that includes retractable pivots, where the links pivot to deploy or retract the pivots automatically or manually, with notches to secure and release the lug, allowing easy handling and preventing untimely retraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a small flap or pin is used to actuate the retractable pivot, then the device complexity is reduced and the bracelet can be released, but the ease of operation deteriorates because the small actuating element is difficult to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation mechanism is segmented into two distinct parts: a large, easily manipulated external element (flap or button) and a small internal actuating element (pin or cam) that actually moves the pivot. The external element provides user interaction while the internal element performs the precise mechanical action, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary mechanism (such as a cam surface or lever arm) is introduced between the external actuating element and the pivot. This intermediary translates the simple user motion into the precise pivot retraction, allowing a large easy-to-handle element to control a small precise movement without requiring the user to directly manipulate a small complex element.
2Ease of operation
If the retractable pivot is made accessible for manual manipulation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to risk of untimely retraction
Solution Approach 1:
Different parts of the mechanism have different accessibility characteristics. The external actuating element (flap or button) is large and easily accessible for intentional operation, while the actual pivot retraction mechanism remains protected and less accessible, preventing accidental activation. This local differentiation of accessibility resolves the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism includes preliminary protective features such as recesses, covers, or geometric constraints that prevent the pivot from being accidentally moved before the user intentionally activates the release mechanism. These preliminary anti-actions counteract potential accidental releases while maintaining intentional ease of operation.
3Reliability
If a complex bulky mechanism is used to house the retractable pivot, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation and wearability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable pivot and its actuation mechanism are nested within the bracelet link structure, with the pivot housed in a compact recess or cavity. The actuating element is integrated into the link design, allowing the mechanism to be protected and reliable while remaining compact and wearable. This nesting resolves the contradiction by eliminating the need for a bulky external housing.
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 system simplifies the attachment and detachment process, ensuring the pivots are securely engaged or easily retracted, reducing the risk of accidental release and enhancing user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
A spring extends along the inside of the sleeve and serves to hold both pivots in the extended positions
Implementation Method 2
By pivoting the sleeve via the flap, a cam system acts on the lugs, which are concealed inside the link, to retract them and thus release the bracelet from the watch case
Data Source
Figure 1~4
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Figure 7~8
AI summary
System (1) for attaching a bracelet to a watch case, comprising: - a first bracelet element (3) arranged to take place between a pair of lugs of said watch case; - a bar (5) housed in said first element (3) and extending along a transverse axis (AA) of the latter, said bar (5) having at least one retractable pivot (7) intended to cooperate with one of said lugs of said watch case; - a second bracelet element (9) mounted around said bar (5) and pivoting relative to said first element.According to the invention, said first element (3) and said second element (9) are adjacent links arranged to define: - a first relative angular position between said first element (3) and said second element (9) in which said retractable pivot (7) is retained in a deployed position in which said pivot (7) is able to cooperate with said horn; and - a second relative angular position between said first element (3) and said second element (9) in which said retractable pivot (7) is retracted or is able to be retracted.