Watch Case Covering Element Independent Bezel Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watch case manufacturing processes are complex, costly, and time-consuming due to intricate machining and multi-step assembly requirements, with decorative elements necessitating specific machining for desired aesthetic effects.
Innovation Solution
A watch case design featuring a middle part with lugs and zones for bracelet connection, a bezel with notches to reveal a trim element, and covering elements that snap onto the middle part independently of the bezel, utilizing vertical ribs and guide grooves for secure positioning, with a trim element made of plastic materials like polycarbonate or PMMA for easy assembly and aesthetic versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If decorative pieces are engaged in grooves and covered by bridges attached to a bezel, then aesthetic appearance is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and assembly steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the decorative ring and covering elements into a single integrated trim element that is fixed directly to the middle part. This merging eliminates the need for separate decorative pieces engaged in grooves and covered by bridges, thereby simplifying both manufacturing and assembly processes while maintaining aesthetic appearance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the decorative function from the complex multi-component assembly (decorative piece + bridges + bezel) and consolidates it into a single trim element with integrated covering elements. This extraction simplifies the overall structure by removing unnecessary intermediate components while preserving the aesthetic function
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple decorative references are stored for different aesthetic effects, then design versatility is achieved, but inventory complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by enabling customization of the trim element's aesthetic properties (color, transparency, surface finish) without changing the fundamental structure. This allows different aesthetic effects to be achieved through material property variations rather than storing multiple structural references, thereby reducing inventory complexity while maintaining design versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying material properties (color, transparency, surface finish) of the trim element to achieve different aesthetic effects. This approach allows versatile design outcomes through parameter modification rather than through multiple physical references, reducing the need to store numerous inventory items
3Productivity
If covering elements are fixed independently to the middle part with vertical ribs and guide grooves, then assembly time is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service through the self-aligning mechanism where guide grooves automatically guide the covering elements onto the vertical ribs during assembly. This self-alignment feature reduces the need for high-precision manual positioning while ensuring accurate placement, thereby increasing assembly speed without sacrificing positioning precision
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
A watch case includes a case middle, a bezel, and an external element at least partially disposed between the case middle and the bezel. The bezel includes at least one hollow revealing the external element. The external element is attached directly to the case middle, independently of an attachment of the bezel to the case middle.