Watch Clasp with Integrated Slide Adjustment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bracelet clasp mechanisms are either complex and difficult to manufacture, particularly for ceramic links, or they have a high footprint in terms of thickness and component count, making them unsuitable for comfortable and aesthetically pleasing designs.
Innovation Solution
A clasp with a deploying loop that integrates a simple and reliable adjustment mechanism within a thin, low-profile design. The clasp features a frame with a first and second arm, a closing mechanism to lock the arms against the frame, and an adjustment device with a slide and control organ that allows for indexed length adjustments, all while maintaining a sleek appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustment mechanism is integrated into two bracelet components, then the bracelet length can be adjusted, but the machining complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is extracted from the bracelet links and integrated into the clasp assembly. The slide mechanism is housed within the clasp body, allowing length adjustment without requiring complex machining of the bracelet links themselves. This transfers the adjustment functionality to a separate, dedicated component that is easier to manufacture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a comfort adjustment mechanism is integrated into the clasp, then the clasp length can be modified, but the clasp thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is designed to operate within the planar dimensions of the clasp rather than adding thickness. The slide moves parallel to the clasp face within a recess, and the control element operates in the same plane, allowing length modification without increasing the clasp's thickness profile.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a comfort device with multiple components is used, then the adjustment function is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into a single integrated clasp assembly. The adjustment mechanism, locking mechanism, and control element are combined into one cohesive unit within the clasp, rather than being separate components. This reduces the overall number of parts while maintaining the adjustment functionality.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a folding clasp (10) for a bracelet, comprising a frame (12), a first arm (42) connected to one end of the frame (12) and to a first connecting member (48), a second connecting member (49) connected to another end of the frame (12) or to one end of a second arm (43) connected to the other end of the frame (12). The first and second connecting members (48, 49) are each intended to be connected to one end of a bracelet strap. The clasp (10) further comprises a locking mechanism configured to lock the first arm (42) or the first and second arms (42, 43) against the frame (12), and a device for adjusting the usable length of the bracelet. The adjustment device comprises at least one adjustment unit (50) arranged within the frame (12). The adjustment unit includes a slide (52, 53) and a control member (60).The slide (52, 53) is arranged to move within a housing (20, 21) in the frame (12) and is connected to one end of the first arm (42) or of one of the first and second arms (42, 43). The control member (60) is connected to the slide (52, 53) to move with the slide (52, 53) and to be able to tilt, along an axis of rotation perpendicular to the movement of the slide (52, 53), in order to lock or unlock the slide (52, 53) within the housing (20, 21) in at least two indexed positions.