Tourbillon Zero Reset Mechanism Minimizing Energy Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watch movements with tourbillon units face significant power loss during the reset mode due to mechanical contact, which is not usable for mechanical watches, and there is a need for a mechanism that minimizes mechanical energy consumption during the zero reset configuration.
Innovation Solution
A movement with a tourbillon unit and a zero reset mechanism that allows the tourbillon unit to be decoupled from the mechanical energy reservoir, enabling the rotating carriage to return to a predefined rotational state with minimal mechanical energy consumption by reducing friction through selective rotational engagement and axial braking, thereby minimizing power loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two arms push against a stop ring to stop the balance wheel and start rotation during reset mode, then the balance wheel can be stopped and restarted, but massive power loss occurs that is not usable for a mechanical watch
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful mechanical contact between arms and stop ring by replacing it with a magnetic field-based braking system. The brake element with magnetic poles creates a magnetic field that interacts with the balance wheel, eliminating direct mechanical contact and the associated power loss while maintaining the reset function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical pushing arms system with a magnetic field-based control system. The brake element generates a magnetic field that can stop and start the balance wheel without mechanical contact, substituting electromagnetic interaction for mechanical force transmission.
2Ease of operation
If the zero reset mechanism is freely rotatable relative to the tourbillion block during reset mode, then the carriage can return to a predefined rotational state, but mechanical contact causes friction and power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes harmful mechanical contacts by extracting the radially inwardly extending guiding structures that caused friction. The outer circumference of the zero reset mechanism is designed to be out of mechanical contact with any component, eliminating friction sources while preserving the free rotation capability for zero reset.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the brake element and the balance wheel, and between the zero reset mechanism components. This magnetic intermediary enables control and guidance without direct mechanical contact, reducing friction and energy consumption.
3Loss of energy
If the outer circumference of the zero reset mechanism is out of mechanical contact to any component, then friction is reduced to minimum, but the mechanism becomes more complex to design and manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the zero reset mechanism into distinct functional zones: the outer circumference is separated from mechanical contact components, while the inner portions maintain necessary engagements. This segmentation allows the friction-reduced outer region to rotate freely while other parts handle control functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves manufacturing complexity by using axial displacement of the brake element rather than complex radial arrangements. The brake element can be moved axially to engage or disengage from the balance wheel, converting a potentially complex radial positioning problem into a simpler axial movement.
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 solution enables precise synchronization and reduced mechanical energy dissipation during the reset process, increasing the power reserve and maintaining long-term stability and precision of the watch movement.
Implementation Method 1
a brake element arranged on the carriage and being axially displaceable from a release position into a braking position. When in the braking state the brake element engages with the balance wheel
Implementation Method 2
The zero reset mechanism comprises a first wheel in engagement with the escape wheel. Since the teeth of the escape wheel mate with corresponding teeth of the first wheel the axis of the escape wheel moves around the first wheel thus leading to a rotating motion
Data Source
AI summary
A movement includes a tourbillion block, a tourbillion unit, and a zero reset mechanism. The tourbillion unit includes a carriage, a balance wheel, and an escape wheel. The balance wheel and the escape wheel are rotationally arranged on the carriage. The carriage is rotationally supported on the tourbillion block. The zero reset mechanism includes a first wheel in engagement with the escape wheel. The movement is switchable between a driving mode and a reset mode. When in the driving mode, the zero reset mechanism is rotationally locked to the tourbillion block. When in the reset mode, the zero reset mechanism is rotatable relative to the tourbillion block.