Torsion Spring Elastic Articulation for Watch Clasp Bulk Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for elastic articulated links in horological assemblies, such as wristwatch bracelets, fail to achieve an optimal balance between locking security, user-friendliness, and aesthetics due to significant bulk, with helical springs in compression or torsion modes being either inefficient or complicated to assemble.
Innovation Solution
The use of torsion springs, arranged around articulation shafts and with specific end designs to guide rotation, reduces bulk and enhances the elastic articulation's efficiency and user-friendliness by providing a stable and secure locking mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If helical springs working in compression mode are used for elastic articulation, then locking security is improved, but the bulk of the assembly increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational mode of the spring from compression to torsion, and changes the spatial arrangement from longitudinal to perpendicular to the bracelet axis. This parameter change allows the spring to generate the necessary locking force while occupying minimal space within the clasp structure, resolving the contradiction between locking security and assembly bulk.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, utilizing a different spatial dimension. This dimensional reorientation allows the elastic articulation mechanism to achieve secure locking without extending the bulk of the assembly along the bracelet's length, thereby maintaining compact dimensions.
2Volume of moving object
If helical springs working in torsion mode are used for elastic articulation, then bulk is reduced, but assembly complexity and play increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate link member that facilitates the connection between the spring and the clasp components. This intermediary element simplifies the assembly process by providing a structured interface for the torsion spring, reducing the complexity of directly integrating the spring into the clasp mechanism while maintaining the compact design.
3Ease of operation
If blade springs working by bending are used for elastic locking, then locking security and ease of operation are improved, but the solution becomes less adaptable to different clasp designs
Solution Approach 1:
The torsion spring arrangement with perpendicular orientation serves multiple functions: it provides elastic articulation, ensures secure locking, and maintains compact dimensions. This multi-functional design makes it adaptable to various clasp configurations and bracelet styles, as the same basic principle can be applied across different horological assemblies without requiring design-specific customization.
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
The torsion spring design minimizes bulk while maintaining high locking security and ease of operation, offering a more aesthetically pleasing and efficient elastic articulated link for horological components.
Implementation Method 1
at least one spring working in torsion mode to generate the elastic effect of the articulation
Implementation Method 2
spring working in torsion mode to generate the elastic effect of the articulation
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement for the elastic articulated link between two components of a horological assembly, wherein it comprises at least one link shaft and one spring (25; 25′) working in torsion mode between the two components to exert an elastic return force.