Timepiece Tightness Check via Rate Comparison Under Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for checking the tightness of timepieces are unsatisfactory due to their complexity, limited suitability for industrial production, and inability to handle parts of different geometries, requiring dedicated equipment and being unreliable for comprehensive sealing measurements.
Innovation Solution
A method involving measuring the timepiece's rate under atmospheric pressure and a higher external pressure to detect leaks by comparing the rate differences, using image capture and a reference clock to determine the time difference between display values, allowing for a simple and reliable assessment of tightness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing tightness measurement solutions are used, then measurement capability is provided, but device complexity increases and requires sensitive components placed in pressurizing tanks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with a time-based measurement approach. Instead of using sensitive mechanical components in pressurizing tanks, the invention measures the time taken for a timepiece to complete a specific number of ticks under different pressure conditions. This temporal measurement method eliminates the need for complex mechanical sensors and pressurizing equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the timepiece's own timekeeping mechanism as a sensor to detect pressure-induced timing variations. Rather than introducing external sensitive components, the invention leverages the inherent timekeeping function of the timepiece itself to indirectly measure tightness through timing variations caused by pressure differential across the seal.
2Reliability
If existing tightness measurement solutions are used, then measurement is possible, but productivity decreases due to part-by-part processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal measurement system that can test multiple timepieces simultaneously using the same equipment and procedure. The method is geometry-independent and can process various types of timepieces without requiring dedicated fixtures or settings for each part, enabling batch testing and significantly improving productivity for industrial production.
3Reliability
If existing tightness measurement solutions are used, then specialized measurement is possible, but adaptability decreases for parts of different geometries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from physical dimensions or geometric characteristics to temporal characteristics. By measuring time-based variations rather than relying on geometric matching, the system becomes adaptable to timepieces of any geometry. The method depends only on the timekeeping function and pressure response, not on the physical shape or size of the timepiece.
4Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If existing tightness measurement solutions are used, then specialized detection is possible, but measurement precision decreases for comprehensive sealing assessment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism by comparing timing measurements taken under different pressure conditions. The system measures the time for a specific number of ticks at atmospheric pressure, then repeats the measurement under pressurized conditions, and compares the results. Any deviation from the expected timing indicates a sealing defect, providing precise and comprehensive sealing assessment through iterative comparison.
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 method provides a reliable and efficient way to check the tightness of timepieces, suitable for industrial production and various geometries, detecting leaks through rate variations without the need for complex equipment, ensuring compliance with water resistance standards.
Implementation Method 1
The method for checking the tightness of a timepiece exploits the influence of the air pressure surrounding the timepiece movement on the operation of said movement
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for checking the water resistance of at least one timepiece, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: E1 - Measure the rate of the timepiece subjected to a first external pressure, particularly atmospheric pressure, to obtain a first reference rate value; E2 - Measure the rate of the timepiece subjected to a second external pressure in a pressurized chamber, to obtain a second rate value under pressure; E3 - Compare the rate values under pressure and the reference rate to deduce whether or not there is a leak in the water resistance in the event of a deviation exceeding a predefined threshold.