Watch Control Device with Elastic Return for Synchronized Calendar Correction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watch movement control devices require synchronization of calendar data by a qualified watchmaker, and rapid corrections can lead to loss of synchronization due to non-simultaneous actions of date and day rockers, causing issues with date and week day alignment.
Innovation Solution
A control device with an input member featuring a crown with internal and external toothing, allowing the output member to move to an actuation position and return to rest under elastic return, independent of the input member's state, ensuring simultaneous action on date and day display mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the output member is connected to the input member via a permanent linkage, then the date and day mechanisms are always synchronized, but the output member cannot return to rest position independently during rapid corrections
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage between input and output members is made dynamic rather than permanent. The elastic arm provides a flexible connection that allows the output member to return to its rest position independently during rapid corrections, while maintaining synchronization during normal operation. This dynamic linkage adapts its state based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device is segmented into distinct functional components: the input member with dual toothing, the elastic arm as a flexible connector, and the output member with actuation elements. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while maintaining overall system coordination, enabling the output member to reset during rapid corrections.
2Device complexity
If the date and day rockers act non-simultaneously, then the structure is simpler, but the calendar data becomes desynchronized requiring watchmaker intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The control device merges the actuation of date and day display mechanisms into a single unified output member. This output member carries multiple actuation elements that simultaneously engage with both the date rocker and day rocker, ensuring synchronized operation without requiring complex coordination mechanisms between separate rockers.
Solution Approach 2:
The output member acts as an intermediary between the input member and the two display mechanisms (date and day). It receives the driving impulse from the input member and distributes it simultaneously to both date and day rockers through its multiple actuation elements, ensuring synchronized operation while maintaining structural simplicity.
3Reliability
If the output member remains engaged with the input member during rapid correction, then synchronization is maintained, but the user cannot perform quick corrections without risking desynchronization
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic arm provides a dynamic connection that allows the output member to disengage from and re-engage with the input member based on operational needs. During rapid corrections, the output member can return to its rest position independently, allowing quick corrections without risking desynchronization, then re-engage for normal synchronized operation.
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
The solution reduces the risk of synchronization loss and ensures simultaneous operation of date and day display mechanisms, eliminating the need for precise user timing during corrections and enhancing operating reliability.
Implementation Method 1
returning to its rest position under the effect of the action of an elastic return member
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c~1d
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a control device comprising an input member (2) intended to receive impulses and an output member (8) arranged to move from a rest position to an actuation position, in response to the reception of an impulse, to act on a clockwork mechanism (100), before returning to its rest position under the effect of the action of an elastic return member (120). The input member (2) has a first toothed section (4), intended to receive the impulses, and a second toothed section (6) arranged to cooperate with at least one stop surface (14) carried by the output member (8), following a retractable link, such that the second toothed section (6) acts on the stop surface (14) to move the output member (8) to its actuation position, and that the output member (8) is free to return to its rest position after reaching its actuation position.