Interchangeable Timepiece Bezel With Single-Position Bayonet Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bayonet fastening devices for interchangeable bezels on timepieces fail to guarantee correct positioning and secure attachment, allowing for multiple angular positions and potential accidental loss.
Innovation Solution
A bayonet fastening device with a mechanical coding system and resilient members ensures a single interlocking position by using distinct fastening elements and resilient members to lock the bezel in place, preventing accidental rotation and loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a bayonet fastening device is used to secure the bezel, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to multiple possible angular positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetric coding elements (protrusions and recesses) on the bezel and case that do not match at all angular positions. This asymmetric design allows the bezel to be easily inserted and rotated (improving ease of operation) while simultaneously ensuring it can only be securely locked in one specific angular position (improving reliability for correct positioning). The coding elements physically prevent engagement at incorrect angles.
2Ease of operation
If resilient means are used to fasten the bezel, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to potential accidental loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two different fastening mechanisms into a single integrated system: the bayonet rotation mechanism provides easy insertion and positioning, while the coding elements provide secure locking and prevention of accidental loss. This merging of mechanisms achieves both ease of operation (through simple rotation) and high reliability (through positive engagement of coding elements at the correct position).
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 solution provides a secure, foolproof attachment of interchangeable bezels, ensuring correct orientation and preventing accidental detachment, enhancing user experience and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
at least two resilient members (18) housed in the annular groove (304) of the middle (110) and bearing between a circular shoulder (111) and an upper collar (113) of the middle (110), each of the resilient members (18) being configured to cooperate with one of the two tabs (301, 302) of the bezel (200) and to exert a force in an axial direction, parallel to the central axis B, on said at least one of the two tabs (301, 302) so as to force the bezel (200) against said circular shoulder (111) of said middle (110), when the bezel (200) is in said locked position
Data Source
AI summary
A timepiece (1) including a middle (110) and an interchangeable bezel (200) fastened to said middle (110) by relative rotation of the bezel (200) relative to the middle (110), about a central axis (B), between an interlocking position and a locked position, by a bayonet fastening device (300), said bayonet fastening device (300) including first fastening elements (300a) formed on the middle (110) and second complementary fastening elements (300b) formed on the bezel (200), wherein the bayonet fastening device (300) includes a mechanical coding system (210, 116) for defining a single position in which said bezel (200) can be interlocked with the middle (110).