Timepiece Animation Mechanism With Dual-Axis Cardan Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing animation mechanisms in timepieces limit the visibility and animation possibilities of decorative objects, particularly in astral representations, by restricting their movement to a single axis or providing limited three-dimensional views.
Innovation Solution
An animation mechanism with a support system allowing decorative objects to rotate about two or three axes, driven by a drive source, incorporating a cardan system and eccentric elements to provide complex reciprocal movements, enabling multiple viewing angles and animations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-axis rotation mechanism is used for decorative objects, then the structure is simple, but the visibility is limited and only one face can be seen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-axis rotation to dual-axis rotation (cardan system), adding a second rotational dimension. The first decorative object rotates about a first axis while simultaneously rotating about a second axis that is substantially orthogonal to the first axis, enabling multi-angled visibility and overcoming the limitation of single-face display
2Device complexity
If a flat display mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the representation of astronomical bodies is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces three-dimensional decorative objects that can rotate about multiple axes, transforming the flat two-dimensional display into a three-dimensional spatial representation. This enables realistic depiction of astronomical bodies such as the Earth with its axial tilt and the Moon's orbital movements, providing enhanced adaptability for representing complex astronomical phenomena
3Ease of operation
If a three-dimensional representation is used, then the visibility of equatorial regions is improved, but the overall visibility and Moon representation are still limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple decorative objects (Earth representation and Moon representation) within a single cardan system. The first decorative object represents the Earth with improved equatorial visibility, while the second decorative object represents the Moon, which orbits about the first decorative object. This merging of multiple astronomical representations in one system overcomes the limitations of separate mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic orbital movement where the second decorative object (Moon) orbits about the first decorative object (Earth) while both rotate about their respective axes. This dynamic configuration allows the Moon to be visible from multiple angles and positions, enhancing overall visibility and accurately representing the Earth-Moon system
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
Enhances the visual perception of decorative objects by allowing them to be viewed from a greater number of angles and representing complex astronomical phenomena, such as the Earth-Moon system, with improved visibility and animation possibilities.
Implementation Method 1
an inner frame mounted to pivot in said first frame about said second axis of rotation which is substantially orthogonal with respect to said first axis of rotation (that is to say that the inner frame is pivoted on the first frame, thus defining a cardan system)
Implementation Method 2
Said inner frame (and thus the first decorative object) is arranged to be driven by an eccentric driving element secured in rotation to a drive wheel
Data Source
AI summary
An animation mechanism for a timepiece, includes a support system bearing a first decorative object intended to be animated by a rotation about a first axis of rotation and about a second axis of rotation under the effect of a drive source. The support system includes a first frame mounted to pivot on a cage element about said first axis of rotation, and an inner frame mounted to pivot in the first frame about the second axis of rotation which is substantially orthogonal with respect to the first axis of rotation, the inner frame bearing a second decorative object. The inner frame is arranged to be driven by an eccentric driving element secured in rotation to a drive wheel arranged to be driven directly or indirectly by the drive source.