Watch Strap Interchangeability via Hidden Button Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bracelet strap systems are impractical for users to replace without tools, risking damage and requiring specialized tools, and toolless systems compromise aesthetics or security, while not being adaptable to conventional watch cases or clasps.
Innovation Solution
A bracelet strap design featuring an adaptation link with a hidden locking and/or unlocking button allows for tool-free interchangeability with conventional esthetic elements, maintaining appearance and security by using a connecting element that remains secured to the case or clasp, enabling separation of strap portions without modifying existing watch cases or clasps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional connecting device (screws, pins) is used to attach bracelet straps, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the strap replacement requires specialized tools and risks damage to the watch
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the button-actuated release system) between the user and the connecting elements. The button serves as a mediator that translates simple user pressure into the complex action of disengaging the connecting elements from the esthetic element, enabling tool-free operation while maintaining secure connection during normal wear
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic elements including movable connecting elements that can transition between engaged and disengaged states, and a button mechanism that moves to actuate the release. This dynamic design allows the system to maintain secure connection during wear while enabling easy release when needed, resolving the contradiction between connection security and ease of replacement
2Ease of operation
If visible locking components (pushbuttons) are added to enable toolless strap replacement, then strap interchangeability is improved, but the aesthetic appearance of the watch is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the button hidden or integrated into the bracelet strap structure rather than visible on the watch case. The releasing mechanism is localized to the bracelet strap component, allowing the watch case and clasp to maintain their traditional aesthetic appearance while the bracelet strap provides the interchangeability function
Solution Approach 2:
The button acts as an intermediary element that is visually separated from the main aesthetic components (watch case and clasp). By placing the visible control element on the bracelet strap rather than the watch case, the patent allows the watch to maintain its aesthetic integrity while still providing toolless interchangeability through the hidden button mechanism
3Ease of operation
If visible locking components are added to allow toolless strap replacement, then ease of operation is improved, but security against inadvertent or malicious manipulation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by requiring the button to be deliberately actuated before the connecting elements can disengage. The button must be pressed to initiate the release sequence, preventing accidental opening while still allowing intentional replacement. This preliminary action step ensures that strap removal is a deliberate user action rather than something that can happen inadvertently
4Ease of operation
If a toolless fixing system is designed into the watch case or clasp, then strap replacement is simplified, but the system cannot be adapted to conventional watch cases or clasps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the toolless fixing system into two separate components: the esthetic element (watch case or clasp) and the bracelet strap with integrated releasing mechanism. This segmentation allows the bracelet strap to incorporate the toolless replacement functionality independently, making it compatible with any conventional watch case or clasp without requiring modifications to those components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves universality by designing the bracelet strap with an integrated releasing mechanism that can work with any conventional esthetic element. The button-actuated connecting elements are universal in their design, allowing the same bracelet strap mechanism to be used across different watch models and clasp types, providing adaptability to conventional cases while maintaining toolless interchangeability
Data Source
AI summary
Strap (1) comprising: a strand or a plurality of links (31b) of a first type; at least one connecting element (7b) connected inseparably to a strand or link of the first type; at least one adjusting link (32) which is intended to be connected to a watch case (2) or to a clasp and which can be connected separably to a connecting element; the at least one adjusting link including a button (6B) for locking and/or unlocking the connection to a connecting element.