Timepiece Complication Correction via Single Rotating Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watch correction mechanisms require multiple pushers for different complications, which are aesthetically unpleasing, and existing solutions do not allow for selecting and correcting complications solely through rotational movements of a single control organ.
Innovation Solution
A correction device with a selection mechanism actuated by a first control member and a correcting gear train actuated by a second control member, allowing selection and correction of multiple complications using a single control rod, such as the winding stem, through rotational movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pushers are provided for correcting different complications, then each complication can be corrected independently, but the watch case becomes cluttered and aesthetically unpleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The single pusher is designed to perform multiple functions: selecting different complications and executing corrections. The pusher interacts with a selection mechanism that routes the correction action to the appropriate complication correction mechanism, allowing one pusher to replace multiple dedicated pushers while maintaining full correction capability for all complications
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the selection function and correction execution function into a single integrated pusher mechanism. The pusher simultaneously engages with both the selection mechanism (for choosing which complication to correct) and the correction mechanism (for executing the correction), combining what would traditionally require separate controls into one unified component
2Ease of operation
If a single control rod is used for both selecting and correcting complications, then the interface is simplified, but the mechanism must handle multiple functions with one control organ
Solution Approach 1:
The single control rod's function is segmented into distinct operational phases: a first rotational movement for selecting the complication and a second rotational movement for executing the correction. The mechanism internally separates these functions through different engagement paths - the selection movement activates the selection mechanism while the correction movement activates the correction mechanism, allowing one control rod to manage multiple functions through temporal and functional segmentation
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism dynamically reconfigures its internal pathways based on the control rod's position and movement direction. Depending on whether the control rod is rotated for selection or correction, different mechanical pathways are activated or deactivated, allowing the single control rod to dynamically switch between selection and correction functions without mechanical conflict
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention proposes a device (1) for correcting N complications of a timepiece, comprising a mechanism for selecting the complication to be corrected, arranged to be actuated by a first selection control member (22), a correcting gear train comprising at least one correcting wheel (12, 14, 16, 18), arranged to be actuated by a second correction control member (22) to correct the selected complication, and N complication correction mechanisms arranged to cooperate with the correcting gear train to correct their respective complications. The correcting gear train is mounted freely for rotation on a frame (2), and the selection mechanism comprises a selection wheel (26) mounted movably for rotation on said frame (2), said selection wheel (26) comprising rotational drive means (30,32) arranged to cooperate with the first selection control member to rotate said selection wheel (26) and at least one activation member (40) of the correction mechanism of the selected complication to be corrected, arranged to be moved with the selection wheel (26) so as to cooperate with the correction mechanism of the selected complication to be corrected in order to move it from a passive position, in which said correction mechanism does not cooperate with the selection wheel (26) or with the correcting gear or with its respective complication, to an active position in which said correction mechanism of the selected complication to be corrected can cooperate with the correcting gear to be actuated when said correcting gear is activated by the second correction control member, in order to cooperate with said selected complication to be corrected to perform its correction.