Timepiece Differential Gear Mechanism for Simultaneous Indicator Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mechanical timepieces require a large number of mechanisms to correct both local and additional time information, which increases production costs, complicates aesthetics, and occupies valuable space, with existing correction mechanisms being limited in directionality and synchronization of minute hands.
Innovation Solution
A timepiece design featuring a differential gear mechanism that allows simultaneous or separate correction of both primary and secondary information indicators using only two control mechanisms, enabled by a correction device with two operational positions, one for simultaneous correction and another for independent correction of either information type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate correction mechanisms are used for local time and additional time indicators, then correction functionality is achieved, but device complexity and number of control means increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the correction mechanisms for local time and additional time indicators into a single integrated correction mechanism. This mechanism can selectively correct either the local time indicator or the additional time indicator, or both simultaneously, by sharing common correction means between the two timekeeping functions. The merging reduces the number of control means from multiple separate mechanisms to a single unified mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The correction mechanism is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple correction operations. It can correct local time, correct additional time, correct both simultaneously, or correct either one independently. This universal correction mechanism replaces what would traditionally require separate dedicated correction mechanisms for each time indicator, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple correction mechanisms are implemented, then comprehensive time correction capability is provided, but space occupied in the movement increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the correction functions for local time and additional time into a single correction mechanism, the patent significantly reduces the space required in the movement. Instead of having separate correction mechanisms that would each require their own gears, levers, and control elements, the shared correction mechanism uses common correction means that serve both timekeeping functions, thereby minimizing the volume occupied in the movement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional separate correction mechanisms are used, then correction function is achieved, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces production costs by merging correction functions into a single mechanism, which decreases the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and quality-checked. Fewer separate mechanisms mean fewer components to source, less assembly time, and simplified production processes, all of which directly reduce manufacturing costs while maintaining comprehensive correction functionality.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control mechanisms are placed around the case, then correction operations are enabled, but aesthetics are harmed
Solution Approach 1:
By consolidating multiple control mechanisms into a single integrated correction mechanism, the patent reduces the number of control elements visible around the case. This single mechanism can be positioned at a convenient location and provides all necessary correction functions, thereby improving the aesthetic appearance by creating a cleaner, less cluttered case design while maintaining full correction operation capability.
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
This design reduces the number of control mechanisms on the timepiece case, enhances aesthetic appeal, and allows for independent operation of indicators, improving precision and reliability while maintaining constant user interaction, and enabling correction in both directions.
Implementation Method 1
The second indicator drive mechanism comprises a differential gear arranged to cooperate on the one hand with the second information correction device and on the other hand with the first drive mechanism
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a timepiece including a first indicator displaying a first piece of information, a first mechanism for driving the first indicator, a second indicator displaying a second piece of information, a second mechanism for driving the second indicator, a correction mechanism and a device for correcting the second piece of information (10), said correction mechanism being arranged so as to be capable of simultaneously correcting the two pieces of information or only the first piece of information. The mechanism for driving the second indicator includes a differential gear (20) arranged so as to engage with the device for correcting the second piece of information (10) and with the first drive mechanism, such that the device for correcting the second piece of information (10) is arranged so as to occupy two positions, a first rest position, in which the correction mechanism, when actuated alone, corrects both the first and the second pieces of information, and a second correction position, in which the device for correcting the second piece of information (10) is arranged to fulfill two correction functions, i.e. a first function for correcting the second piece of information, according to which the device for correcting the second piece of information (10) engages with the second mechanism for driving the second indicator so as to correct only the second piece of information, the correction mechanism not being actuated, and a second correction function for correcting the first piece of information, according to which the device for correcting the second piece of information (10) engages with the second mechanism for driving the second indicator such that only the first piece of information is corrected when the correction mechanism is actuated at the same time as the device for correcting the second piece of information (10) is retained in the second position thereof.