S-Shaped Fixing Ring for Watch Dial Securing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watch dial securing methods are complex, unreliable, and unsuitable for skeleton watches due to reliance on friction or complex machining, and they do not provide a robust and inexpensive solution.
Innovation Solution
A watch design featuring a fixing ring with an S-shaped cross-section that grips the dial between an upper branch on the dial and a lower branch on the casing ring, with a clamping mechanism that secures the dial without the need for dial feet, using a one-piece metallic fixing ring and positioning lugs and notches for radial alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metal feet are driven into machined holes in the dial, then the dial is held securely in place, but the machining operations become complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the securing function from the dial itself and transfers it to a separate fixing ring component. Instead of modifying the dial with holes and feet, the fixing ring is provided with protrusions that engage with the dial's peripheral rim, thereby securing the dial without requiring complex machining of the dial itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing ring is divided into functional segments: an upper branch that contacts the dial, a lower branch that contacts the casing ring, and intermediate branches with protrusions that engage the dial's peripheral rim. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function while simplifying the overall assembly process.
2Ease of manufacture
If a polygonal mount deformed by forced insertion is used to hold the dial, then assembly is simplified, but the dial becomes unreliable under shocks due to friction-only holding
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing ring is pre-formed with the S-shaped cross-section and integrated protrusions during manufacturing, eliminating the need for forced insertion and deformation during assembly. The protrusions are already positioned to engage with the dial's peripheral rim, ensuring both easy assembly and reliable shock resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing ring employs an S-shaped curved cross-section that provides mechanical advantage and stability. The curved geometry of the S-shape allows the fixing ring to be elastically deformed during assembly and then lock into place, providing both ease of assembly and reliable holding under shock conditions.
3Reliability
If recesses are provided in the mount for force fit of the dial, then shock resistance is improved, but the appearance becomes unattractive in skeleton watches due to visible openings
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing ring applies different functional qualities to different locations: the upper branch provides a bearing surface against the dial, the intermediate branches provide protrusions for engagement with the peripheral rim, and the lower branch provides clamping against the casing ring. This localized functionality achieves both shock resistance and aesthetic appearance without visible openings.
4Reliability
If holes are pierced in the movement for feet integral with the dial, then secure fixing is achieved, but the device complexity increases due to one-piece dial feet requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the feet function from the dial and relocates it to the fixing ring. The protrusions on the fixing ring's intermediate branches perform the securing function previously assigned to dial feet, eliminating the need for integral dial feet and associated complex machining of both the dial and movement.
Data Source
AI summary
A watch is delimited by a case formed of a back cover and of a middle part. A timepiece movement is disposed in a casing ring housed inside the watch case. The watch also includes a dial disposed on top of the casing ring and held by a fixing ring. The fixing ring has an S-shaped cross-section. An upper branch of the fixing ring is supported on the dial and a lower branch of the fixing ring is supported on the casing ring. The lower branch of the fixing ring is clamped between the middle part and the casing ring, so as to grip the dial between the upper branch of the fixing ring and the casing ring.