Watch Case Sliding Correction Member for Multiple Functions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing timepieces with multiple complications face installation and aesthetic issues due to the multiplication of correction organs on the caseband, which also compromises watertightness.

Innovation Solution

A multifunction correction member that allows selection and modification of at least two functions using a single control member, requiring only one opening in the case middle, with a cylindrical body and a control stem that slides transversely for interaction with function correctors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple correction organs are incorporated on the caseband to control multiple functions, then the functionality and versatility of the timepiece is improved, but the device complexity and aesthetic appearance deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidnumber of correction organs
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the universality principle by designing a single correction organ that can control multiple functions (time correction, date correction, chronograph activation, etc.) through a universal control mechanism. The correction organ includes a control element that can be positioned in different locations, each location corresponding to a different function, allowing one organ to perform multiple roles that previously required separate organs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges multiple correction functions into a single correction organ by combining multiple control mechanisms into one integrated structure. The control element can be positioned at different locations on the organ, and each position activates a different function, effectively merging what were previously separate correction organs into one unified component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple correction organs are incorporated on the caseband, then the functionality is improved, but the watertightness of the timepiece deteriorates due to multiplication of openings

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidwatertightness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a single correction organ with multiple functional positions to replace multiple separate correction organs, thereby reducing the number of openings in the caseband from multiple to one. This maintains watertightness while preserving the ability to control multiple functions through the single organ's positional variations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple correction organs are incorporated on the caseband, then the functionality is improved, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates due to sober and elegant design requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent consolidates multiple correction functions into a single aesthetically pleasing organ, eliminating the need for multiple separate organs that would clutter the caseband. The single organ can be designed with a clean, elegant appearance while maintaining multiple functional capabilities through its positional control mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4198639B1Case for a timepiece comprising a correcting means
Publication Date: 2025.10.22 ETA SA MFG HORLOGERE SUISSE
  • EP4198639B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4198639B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4198639B1 patent drawingFigure 5a~5d

AI summary

One aspect of the invention relates to a watch case comprising a case (20) adapted to receive a watch movement (1) having at least one function corrector (10, 12) for performing various functions of activating, selecting, resetting, and/or correcting information derived from the current time of said watch movement (1), the case (20) having a through-hole (21) configured to receive a correction element (100) comprising a cylindrical body (110) with longitudinal axis (XX), a control rod (120) movable in translation within said cylindrical body, along the longitudinal axis (XX), said control rod (120) having an end (122) intended to cooperate with at least one function corrector (10, 12) of said watch movement (1), a pusher (130) integral with said control rod (120) and accessible by the user from outside said case. box (2),characterized in that the correcting member (100) is mounted to slide in said slot (21) of the case (20) between several stable positions, each of the stable positions modifying the position of the end (122) of said control rod (120) with respect to said clockwork movement (1).