Stemless Watch Mechanism Using Magnetic Transmission for Waterproofing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional watches with crown mechanisms suffer from gaps that allow external liquids and dust to enter the case, compromising the waterproof and dustproof functions.
Innovation Solution
A stemless operation mechanism for watches, featuring a case with airtight isolating areas, magnetic units for non-contact transmission, and a detection module to monitor movement, ensuring waterproof and dustproof functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional crown mechanism with screws or mechanical components is used, then the watch can perform time and date adjustment operations, but gaps are formed that allow external liquid or dust to enter the case
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical crown transmission system with a magnetic field-based non-contact transmission system. The first moving component with magnetic units interacts with the second moving component through magnetic attraction or repulsion forces, eliminating the need for physical contact and mechanical screws, thereby preventing water and dust ingress while maintaining operational functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the first moving component and the second moving component. This magnetic field mediator enables force transmission without physical contact, allowing the crown operation to be transmitted to the internal mechanism while maintaining the waterproof seal of the case
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a stemless or rodless operating mechanism with non-contact transmission is used, then waterproof and dustproof effects are achieved, but the structure becomes more complex with magnetic units and detection modules
Solution Approach 1:
The first moving component serves multiple functions: it acts as both the operational interface (replacing the crown) and the driver for magnetic transmission. The second moving component similarly serves as both the transmission element and the detection target, reducing the need for separate components and simplifying the overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic units automatically generate attraction or repulsion forces based on their relative positions, eliminating the need for additional actuators or complex control mechanisms. The detection module simply needs to detect the position of the second moving component, which self-regulates through magnetic interaction
3Object-affected harmful factors
If magnetic units are used for non-contact transmission, then waterproof function is maintained, but manufacturing precision requirements increase for magnetic unit positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the controllable nature of magnetic field strength and direction by adjusting the positioning and orientation of magnetic units. By changing magnetic field parameters rather than relying solely on precise mechanical positioning, the system achieves effective force transmission with relaxed manufacturing tolerances
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic interaction between the first and second moving components is dynamic and adaptive, automatically adjusting to positional variations. The magnetic attraction or repulsion forces self-correct for minor positioning deviations, reducing the impact of manufacturing precision limitations
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the first moving component is made smaller to fit in the accommodating area, then the waterproof seal is improved, but the operational force transmission may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs magnetic field lines as a flexible force transmission medium that can effectively couple small moving components. The magnetic units generate concentrated magnetic flux that efficiently transmits force over short distances, enabling effective force transmission even with compact component sizes that maintain the waterproof seal
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The stemless operation mechanism provides a simple, cost-effective, and accurate solution for watch operation, maintaining the watch's internal components' stability and accuracy while preventing water and dust ingress.
Implementation Method 1
The second magnetic unit is cooperated with the first magnetic unit to generate a magnetic attraction force
Implementation Method 2
The second magnetic unit is cooperated with the first magnetic unit to generate a magnetic repulsion force
Implementation Method 3
the detection module includes an optical detector, and a feature point is formed on a rotation shaft of the second moving component, and the optical detector detects position change of the feature point
Implementation Method 4
The detection module further includes an illumination light source adapted to project an illumination beam onto the rotation shaft
Implementation Method 5
The partition portion is disposed between the first accommodating area and the second accommodating area to provide an airtight isolating function
Data Source
AI summary
A stemless operation mechanism includes a case, a first moving component, a second moving component and a detection module. The case includes a first accommodating area, a second accommodating area and a partition portion used to provide an airtight isolating function. The first moving component is movably disposed on the first accommodating area and includes a first magnetic unit. The second moving component is movably disposed on the second accommodating area and includes a second magnetic unit located on position corresponding to position of the first magnetic unit. The second magnetic unit is cooperated with the first magnetic unit to generate a magnetic attraction force or a magnetic repulsion force. The detection module is disposed adjacent to the second moving component, and adapted to detect a movement of the second moving component for determining an operation behavior applied for the first moving component.