Retrograde display mechanism for horology
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Solution Overview
Problem
Retrograde display mechanisms in timepieces occupy large volumes within a watch case, making it difficult to achieve a logical juxtaposition of multiple displays, and existing solutions are not adaptable to available space efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A timepiece display mechanism incorporating a combination of first and second retrograde drive means with remote pivot axes, utilizing drive racks and return racks to exert opposite forces, and featuring a cam system with a ramp and feeler arm for efficient operation, allowing for compact integration of multiple displays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If retrograde display mechanisms are implemented in timepieces, then multiple distinct displays can be arranged on the dial, but the mechanisms occupy large volumes inside the watch case
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple retrograde display mechanisms (first and second retrograde drive means) into a single integrated system sharing common components such as the cam, feeler arm, and return spring, thereby reducing the total volume occupied while maintaining multiple distinct displays
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism serves multiple functions by controlling both the first and second retrograde drive means, while the return spring provides resetting function for both displays, allowing a single component to perform multiple roles and reduce overall mechanism volume
2Adaptability or versatility
If retrograde display mechanisms are implemented, then multiple displays can be shown, but it becomes difficult to achieve a logical juxtaposition of the various magnitudes displayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric arrangement of the first and second retrograde drive means with remote pivot axes, allowing flexible positioning of display magnitudes to achieve logical juxtaposition while maintaining compact overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
By utilizing remote pivot axes positioned at different locations, the mechanism arrangements extend into multiple spatial dimensions, enabling logical display configurations without increasing planar footprint
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple retrograde drive means are used, then multiple displays can be achieved, but the thickness of the movement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the first and second retrograde drive means in nested or overlapping arrangements where components of one mechanism can be positioned within or adjacent to components of another, reducing the cumulative thickness while accommodating multiple displays
Data Source
AI summary
A timepiece display mechanism including at least a first retrograde drive device for a first display member displaying a first magnitude, and a second retrograde drive device for a second display member displaying a second magnitude, the first retrograde drive device including a first drive rack to exert on a first wheel set driving the first display member, an opposite force to a resistance force exerted by a first return rack, the second retrograde drive device including a second drive rack to exert on a second wheel set driving the second display member, an opposite force to a resistance force exerted by a second return rack, wherein the pivot axes of the first drive rack and of the first return rack are remote, and/or the pivot axes of the second drive rack and of the second return rack are remote.