Sliding Timepiece Correction Member for Single-Opening Case Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The multiplication of correction members in timepiece cases, particularly in mid-range and top-range watches, leads to aesthetic and sealing issues due to the increased number of openings required, compromising the elegant appearance and integrity of the watch case.
Innovation Solution
A multifunction correction member that allows multiple functions to be controlled using a single opening in the case middle, featuring a cylindrical body with a control stem that slides between stable positions to interact with different function correctors, minimizing the need for additional openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple correction members are added to control multiple complications, then the functionality of the timepiece is improved, but the number of openings in the case middle increases leading to aesthetic and sealing problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple correction functions into a single correction member that can selectively interact with different function correctors. The control stem of this unified correction member can be positioned to engage with various complications (date, time zone, chronograph) through a single opening in the case middle, eliminating the need for separate correction members for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The correction member is designed as a universal control device that can perform multiple correction functions. By making the correction member multi-functional, the patent allows a single device to control various complications without requiring additional openings, thus maintaining aesthetic appearance while providing comprehensive functionality.
2Ease of operation
If multiple correction members are positioned outside the case middle, then each function can be controlled independently, but the layout becomes crowded and aesthetic appearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of positioning separate correction members at different locations on the case, the patent merges them into a single correction member that operates through one opening. This consolidation maintains clean case aesthetics while preserving independent control capability through the selective positioning mechanism of the control stem.
3Ease of operation
If multiple openings are made in the watch case for correction members, then access to various functions is improved, but sealing integrity and case integrity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the need for multiple openings by consolidating correction functions into a single access point. By taking out the requirement for separate openings for each correction member, the design maintains case sealing integrity while still providing access to all necessary functions through the single opening via the multi-position control stem.
Data Source
AI summary
A timepiece case including a middle (20) receiving a horological movement (1) having at least one function corrector (10, 12) for carrying out various functions of activating, selecting, resetting and/or correcting a piece of information derived from the current time of the horological movement (1). The middle has a correction member (100), and a control stem (120) moving in translation within the cylindrical body of the correction member. The correction member (100) is mounted such that it slides in the middle (20) between a plurality of stable positions, each of the stable positions modifying the position of the end (122) of the control stem (120) facing the horological movement (1).