Mechanical Timepiece Rate Setting via Crown-Linked Lever Mechanism

The patent applies preliminary anti-action by requiring the user to first pull the crown to a specific position (second position) before rate setting can be performed. This preliminary action creates a deliberate sequence that prevents accidental rate resetting, as the crown must be intentionally positioned before the rate setting function becomes active. The system prepares the anti-action mechanism in advance by designing the crown positions and linkages to ensure that rate setting only occurs when deliberately initiated.

The patent employs dynamics by making the rate setting mechanism conditional and changeable based on crown position. The connection between the crown and the rate setting components is dynamically activated only when the crown is in the second position, and deactivated when returned to the first position. This dynamic behavior allows the system to switch between different operational states (normal winding vs. rate setting) based on user action, improving both accessibility and safety.

The patent applies segmentation by separating the rate correction function from the time display correction function. Although both operations use the same crown, the patent divides the correction process into independent components: the rate correction is performed through a dedicated rate setting mobile that operates independently from the time setting mobile. This segmentation allows precise rate adjustment without being constrained by time display requirements, while still using a unified crown interface.

The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the rate setting mobile and its associated linkages) that mediates between the crown input and the balance spring adjustment. This intermediary allows the crown rotations to be translated into precise rate corrections through a dedicated transmission path, independent of the time setting path. The intermediary ensures that rate correction precision is maintained while still utilizing the common crown interface.

The patent applies universality by making the existing crown serve multiple functions: time display correction, rate setting, and date correction (if applicable). Instead of adding a separate control organ diametrically opposite the crown, the patent enables the single crown to access different correction functions by pulling it to different positions. This multi-functionality approach provides rate setting adaptability while avoiding the complexity of adding a second arbor and its associated water resistance challenges.

The patent uses another dimension (axial position) to differentiate between functions rather than adding components in the radial direction. By pulling the crown to different axial positions (first position for time setting, second position for rate setting), the patent creates a new dimension for function selection. This approach provides versatile rate setting capability while maintaining a compact structure without additional arbors or complex linkages.

The patent applies self-service by enabling the user to perform rate setting at any convenient time without requiring external reference or precise timing. The system automatically maintains the corrected rate from the moment of setting, eliminating the need for the user to monitor reference clocks or perform settings at specific intervals. The timepiece self-corrects and maintains accuracy independently after the initial user-initiated adjustment.

The patent uses preliminary action by allowing the user to perform rate setting at any time without waiting for reference time updates. The correction is applied immediately and preliminarily establishes the correct rate, which then continues to function autonomously. This eliminates the constraint of performing settings only at precise reference moments, providing both manufacturing precision and operational flexibility.