Watch Case Support Stretchers for Tool-Free Bracelet Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watch cases require tools to change the bracelet, complicating the process and risking damage to components during disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A watch case design with removably attached support stretchers and tool-free attachment means allows easy strap changes by detaching the stretchers from the caseband, using a crown mechanism for tool-less release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spring bars are fixed by pivots in blind holes and permanently fixed to the caseband, then the bracelet is securely attached, but the bracelet cannot be changed without tools
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate components: the caseband with pivot holes, removable spring bars with pivots, and the bracelet with eyelets. This segmentation allows the spring bars to be independently removed from the caseband, enabling tool-free bracelet replacement while maintaining secure attachment during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring bars transition from a static permanent fixation state to a dynamic removable state. The pivots are designed to be held in place during normal wear but can be easily retracted when needed, allowing the attachment system to adapt between security and replaceability modes.
2Ease of operation
If screws with knurled heads are used to connect stretchers to the bracelet, then the bracelet can be changed without tools, but all elements of the wristwatch are separated and risk falling and breaking
Solution Approach 1:
The spring bars are extracted as separate removable components from the caseband assembly. By removing only the spring bars rather than all attachment elements, the bracelet can be detached while the caseband and other components remain intact and secured, eliminating the risk of all elements separating and potentially breaking.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of completely disassembling all fastening elements, only the necessary spring bars are removed for bracelet replacement. This partial action achieves the goal of bracelet change while leaving other components in place, reducing the risk of damage from complete disassembly.
3Reliability
If two separate screws are used to attach stretchers, then the connection is secure, but the disassembly operation becomes complex and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The two separate screw operations are merged into a single spring bar removal action. The spring bar integrates the functionality of multiple fastening elements, allowing both attachment points to be secured or released simultaneously by removing or installing one component, thereby simplifying the disassembly operation while maintaining secure connection.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a watch case (2) for a wristwatch (1) comprising a case body (6); at least one support bar (7a, 7b) for the case body (6), the support bar (7a, 7b) extending beyond the space occupied by the case body (6); means (8) for the removable attachment of a strap (4) to the support bar (7a, 7b). The watch case (2) further comprises a device (13) for attaching the support bar(s) to the case body (6), the removable attachment means (8) being formed when said support bar (7b) is attached to the case body (6); and said fixing member (13) is provided with means (24) for detaching said stretcher (7b) from the frame (6), configured to allow tool-free release of the stretcher (7b) from the frame (6), said stretcher (7b) being removably fixed to the frame (6).