Smart Winder Torque Measurement for Automatic Watch

The patent replaces the acoustic measurement method with a mechanical measurement method. Instead of using acoustic sensors (microphones) to detect balance-spring amplitude, the invention uses a torque sensor to measure the torque exerted by the oscillating mass on the winding mechanism. This mechanical approach eliminates the need for acoustic measurements and is not affected by background noise, directly resolving the contradiction between measurement capability and noise interference.

The patent introduces a torque sensor as an intermediary element between the oscillating mass and the measurement system. The torque sensor measures the torque transmitted through the winding mechanism, which is influenced by the oscillating mass's position and movement. This intermediary approach allows indirect measurement of the winding state without requiring direct contact with the balance-spring or acoustic sensors near the resonator, thereby avoiding background noise interference.

The patent replaces the complex acoustic measurement system (requiring microphones, acoustic coupling, noise isolation) with a simple mechanical torque sensor integrated into the winding mechanism. The torque sensor directly measures the mechanical torque transmitted by the oscillating mass, eliminating the need for complex acoustic hardware and environmental controls, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.

The winding mechanism itself serves as the measurement system. The torque sensor is integrated into the existing winding mechanism, and the oscillating mass's natural movement during winding automatically generates the torque signal needed for measurement. No additional active sensors, power-consuming microphones, or complex acoustic coupling mechanisms are required - the system uses its own operational characteristics for measurement, greatly simplifying the device.

The patent replaces the power-consuming acoustic measurement system with a passive mechanical torque sensor. The torque sensor measures torque through mechanical means without requiring active electronic sensors, signal amplification, or digital processing that would consume power. This mechanical approach dramatically reduces power consumption while maintaining the ability to accurately determine winding state.

The measurement system uses the mechanical energy already present in the winding mechanism's operation. The oscillating mass's movement during winding naturally generates torque variations that the sensor detects passively. No additional power is required to generate measurement signals - the system harvests measurement information from its own operational dynamics, eliminating the need for separate power sources required by acoustic measurement systems.

The patent implements a feedback control system using the torque sensor to continuously monitor the winding state of the watch. The sensor detects when the mainspring reaches optimal torque levels, and this information feeds back to the winding mechanism to stop winding at the appropriate moment. This prevents both under-winding (which would reduce power reserve) and over-winding (which would cause premature wear), optimizing both duration and reliability.

The patent applies partial action by winding the mainspring only to the necessary degree rather than continuously or excessively. The torque sensor detects when sufficient torque has been stored in the mainspring for extended wear, and winding is stopped at this optimal point. This partial action approach provides adequate power reserve for extended periods while avoiding the excessive winding that would cause premature wear of watch components.