Removable Timepiece Cap Locking Structure for Robust Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for attaching caps to timepiece components, such as bracelet clasps, fail to meet requirements for robustness, ease of assembly, reliable fastening, and aesthetic appeal.
Innovation Solution
A timepiece component with a removable cap that utilizes a first part with a latching member and a movable lock, and a cap with assembly members that engage in a fastening configuration to ensure secure attachment and a free configuration for easy removal, using materials like ceramic or metal for durability and appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If brazing is used to attach the cap to the timepiece component, then the cap is robust and resistant to external loads, but the assembly process becomes complex and risky with potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into distinct functional elements: a latching member on the component, an assembly member on the cap, and a movable lock. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining robust attachment through the coordinated interaction of these separate parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable lock acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the latching member and the assembly member. It controls the engagement and disengagement of the cap by interacting with both the component's latching mechanism and the cap's assembly feature, providing a simple yet reliable attachment process without requiring complex brazing procedures.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented to prevent unintended disassembly, then the cap attachment becomes reliable, but the ease of operation for intentional removal decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system incorporates a movable lock that can dynamically transition between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic element allows the cap to be securely held in place during normal use while enabling easy removal when intentionally actuated, resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The lockable attachment mechanism is designed to be self-servicing through the interaction of its components. The movable lock automatically engages with the latching member and assembly member to secure the cap, and can be easily disengaged through a simple actuation action, providing both reliable attachment and easy removal without requiring external tools or complex procedures.
3Ease of operation
If a removable cap system is designed for easy assembly and disassembly, then the ease of operation improves, but the risk of damage during assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the attachment system into a latching member, assembly member, and movable lock, the design allows for gentle, controlled engagement of parts. Each segment can be positioned and engaged separately, reducing the risk of misalignment or forced assembly that could cause damage, while still achieving easy overall assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The design inherently provides cushioning against assembly damage through the progressive engagement of its segmented components. The latching member and assembly member are designed to guide each other into proper alignment, and the movable lock engages in a controlled manner, preventing sudden impacts or misaligned forcing that could damage the cap or component.
4Ease of manufacture
If existing attachment solutions are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the aesthetic appeal and visual impact of the cap are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented attachment system allows the cap to be designed as a distinct, visually prominent element that can be optim shaped for aesthetic appeal. The cap's assembly member can be integrated into the cap's design without compromising manufacturing simplicity, as the attachment mechanism uses straightforward latching and locking features that do not require complex shaping or finishing processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A timepiece component having a first part and a removable cap which can adopt a fastening configuration and a free configuration. The first part comprises at least one first latching member and a movable lock. The cap comprises at least one first assembly member designed to cooperate with the first latching member of the first part, and a second assembly member designed to cooperate with the movable lock. In the fastening configuration, the first latching member of the first part and the first assembly member of the cap are in engagement. The movable lock is in engagement with the second assembly member of the cap. The cap is fastened in a locked manner to the first part. In the free configuration, the movable lock occupies an open position in which it releases the second assembly member of the cap and allows the cap to be separated from the first part.