Watch Crown Actuation Ring for Easier Radial Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing timepiece mechanisms for winding, time-setting, and date-changing functions are cumbersome and aesthetically unpleasing, requiring manual and precise manipulation of the crown, which is difficult for users.
Innovation Solution
An actuation device with a cam and follower system allows easy manipulation of the crown or valve by translating and rotating it along its longitudinal axis, using a movable element with a cam and ball ratchet for secure positioning, enhancing user convenience and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual manipulation of the crown is used to control winding, time-setting, and date-changing functions, then the timepiece maintains traditional structure, but the operation becomes cumbersome and difficult for users
Solution Approach 1:
The pusher is designed to move dynamically between two positions (first and second positions) along the radial axis, allowing automatic actuation of the crown to different axial positions. This dynamic movement eliminates the need for manual grasping and positioning of the crown, significantly improving ease of operation while keeping the actuation mechanism relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation device enables self-service operation where pressing the pusher automatically performs the function of manually positioning the crown. The system serves itself by converting a simple linear push motion into the complex multi-position crown actuation, reducing user effort and complexity of operation
2Ease of operation
If a pusher mechanism is added to automate crown positioning, then ease of operation improves, but the device becomes more complex and potentially less aesthetically pleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation device merges multiple functions into a single pusher mechanism. The pusher simultaneously controls the crown's axial positioning, integrates with the case structure, and works in conjunction with the rotating bezel assembly. This consolidation improves ease of operation while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity by combining rather than adding separate mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The pusher serves multiple functions: it actuates the crown to different positions, integrates with the case flange structure, and works with the rotating bezel system. This multi-functionality allows a single component to improve ease of operation across multiple operations (winding, time-setting, date-changing) without proportionally increasing device complexity
3Ease of operation
If the pusher is made accessible on the case surface for easy operation, then ease of operation improves, but the aesthetics of the timepiece may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The pusher is nested within the case structure, specifically mounted on the case flange and integrated with the rotating bezel assembly. When not in use, the pusher can be positioned within the bezel structure, creating a nested arrangement that maintains aesthetic appearance while preserving accessibility when needed for 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 actuation device facilitates smooth and secure transition between functional positions of the crown or valve, improving user experience and maintaining the timepiece's aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
The drive means comprise a cam (6a) located on the moving element (6) and a follower (3a, 7a) located on the component (3, 7) and intended to cooperate with the cam (6a). The cam (6a) is arranged to move away from the central axis of the housing (1) in order to generate the translational movement of the component (3, 7) outwards from the housing (1)
Implementation Method 2
The actuation device includes a ball ratchet to prevent unintentional movement of the rotating moving element
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1F
Figure 2A~2C
AI summary
The present invention relates to a timepiece comprising: - a control member (3) or a valve (7) mounted to move in translation along a radial axis between at least a first position close to the central axis (1a) of the case (1) and a second position further away from this central axis, - an actuation device capable of moving said control member or said valve in translation along the radial axis; this actuation device comprising: - an element (6) mounted to move in rotation around the central axis (1a) of the case (1) and intended to be moved angularly by the user, - drive means formed by a ring mounted to rotate between the case and the bezel, these drive means being arranged to link the angular displacement of the rotating mobile element (6) to the translational displacement of the control member (3) or the valve (7).