Vibrating Reed Q-Value Optimization via Base Flexion Width Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vibrating reeds face challenges in improving the Q-value without increasing the size of the base, as thermoelastic losses hinder further enhancement due to distortions and temperature variations between the crotch section and notches, leading to energy loss and reduced Q-value performance.

Innovation Solution

A vibrating reed design featuring a base with notches and vibrating arms with weight sections and groove sections, where the mechanical resonant frequency is higher than the thermal relaxation frequency, and the base flexion width is greater than the effective arm width, minimizing thermoelastic losses and optimizing the Q-value by controlling temperature differences.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the base size is enlarged to improve Q-value, then the Q-value is improved, but the device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveQ-valueVSAvoidbase size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by creating notches at specific locations on the base rather than uniformly enlarging the entire base. The notches are strategically positioned to reduce thermoelastic loss at critical stress concentration points, improving Q-value locally without increasing overall base area. This targeted approach allows Q-value enhancement while maintaining compact device dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If weight sections are added to vibrating arms to improve Q-value, then the Q-value is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveQ-valueVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the weight section functionality directly into the vibrating arm structure rather than adding separate components. The weight sections are integrated as part of the vibrating arm geometry, eliminating the need for additional fasteners, joints, or separate mass elements. This integration maintains Q-value improvement while reducing structural complexity and potential failure points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If groove sections are provided on arm sections to reduce thermoelastic loss, then the Q-value is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveQ-valueVSAvoidgroove fabrication precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the groove sections into standardized geometric features that can be manufactured using conventional machining or molding processes. By dividing the complex surface geometry into discrete, repeatable groove patterns, the design reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining the thermoelastic loss reduction effect. This segmentation allows for easier quality control and fabrication.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 effectively reduces thermoelastic losses in the base, preventing deterioration of the Q-value and allowing for improved Q-value performance, with a broader setting range for base flexion and effective arm widths, and reduces design time by minimizing feedback parameters.

Implementation Method 1

thermoelastic losses hinder further enhancement due to distortions and temperature variations between the crotch section and notches

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermoelastic loss:

Implementation Method 2

thermoelastic losses hinder further enhancement due to distortions and temperature variations

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInternal friction:

Implementation Method 3

a vibration device equipped with a vibrating reed vibrating in a flexural mode

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS8427035B2Vibration device and electronic device
Publication Date: 2013.04.23 SEIKO EPSON CORP
  • US8427035B2 patent drawing
  • US8427035B2 patent drawing
  • US8427035B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vibration device includes: a vibrating reed including a base having a notch, a plurality of vibrating arms extending from the base, and each including an arm section, a weight section, and a groove section, and a support section, wherein a mechanical resonant frequency f of the vibrating reed is higher than a thermal relaxation frequency f0 of the vibrating reed, and assuming that a closest approach distance between the notch and a crotch section formed between the vibrating arms is a base flexion width Wb, and an arm width of the vibrating arm in a case of replacing a cross-sectional shape of the vibrating arm having a thermoelastic loss equivalent to a thermoelastic loss of the cross-sectional shape and a thickness equal to a thickness of the cross-sectional shape is an effective arm width We, a relationship of Wb>We is satisfied.