Watch Control Mechanism Using Column Wheel for Mode Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical watch control and adjustment mechanisms are cumbersome, making it difficult for users to navigate between modes and are not suitable for mechanical movements due to space constraints and lack of intuitive navigation.
Innovation Solution
A watch module with a barrel, control member, and mechanical display means, where the control member is coupled to a pawl meshing with a 5-stage column wheel, allowing selection of operating modes and performing multiple functions such as displaying the current mode, activating/deactivating a gear train, and adjusting time parameters, thereby simplifying adjustments and reducing space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional control mechanisms with multiple dedicated control devices are used, then each function can be adjusted, but the space required on the plate increases and the mechanism becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single integrated control device featuring a column wheel with multiple stages. Each stage of the column wheel corresponds to a different operating mode, allowing the user to select between various functions (alarm setting, time setting, date setting) through a unified mechanism rather than requiring separate control devices for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device is designed as a universal mechanism that performs multiple functions through its multi-stage column wheel. The same physical control device handles different adjustment tasks by switching between operational modes, making the system adaptable to various functions while occupying minimal space on the plate.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional pull-tab crown mechanisms are used for mode selection, then different functions can be selected, but the manipulation becomes tedious and user-friendly navigation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a display device that provides visual feedback to the user about the current operating mode. As the column wheel is rotated to select different modes, the display device immediately shows which mode is currently active, allowing the user to confirm their selection and understand the function that will be performed. This feedback mechanism eliminates the confusion associated with traditional pull-tab mechanisms where the user must remember or guess the current mode.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated control devices are placed on the watch, then comprehensive adjustment functions are available, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device is segmented into distinct functional stages within the column wheel structure. Each stage of the column wheel is responsible for a specific operating mode, and the mechanical transmission system is segmented to engage different gear trains corresponding to different functions. This segmentation allows complex functionality to be organized in a structured, manageable way within a single integrated device.
Data Source
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AI summary
The movement has a control component e.g. push button (102), for allowing the selection of functional modes e.g. activation and deactivation modes, of the movement. Displaying units e.g. wheel and display disc, are coupled to the control component to display a current functional mode. An adjusting component e.g. crown (103), completes three different functions according to the current functional mode. The adjusting component allows the adjustment of two temporal parameters e.g. date triggering parameter (109') and a time triggering parameter (110'). An independent claim is also included for a method for controlling a clock movement.