Watch Crown Axial Switching Mechanism for Winding and Setting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watch mechanisms are cumbersome to operate, particularly for setting the minute hand, as the crown is often difficult to pull out and determine the setting position by tactile means, leading to potential damage or incorrect operation.
Innovation Solution
A device with an actuating device and switching mechanism that allows axial movement from an actuating position to a switching position, enabling seamless switching between winding and setting positions without needing to pull out the crown, using a drive shaft and control shaft connected via a torsionally rigid coupling, allowing easy operation by axial movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the crown is integrated into the case for protection or design reasons, then the watch appearance and protection are improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates as it becomes much more difficult to pull out the crown
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by enabling the crown to move axially between different positions (winding position and setting position) while remaining integrated into the case. The crown can be pushed axially to engage different functional positions, allowing the watch to switch between winding and setting modes without removing the crown from its integrated position, thus maintaining both protection and operational ease
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the crown's functionality into distinct axial positions - a winding position and a setting position. By dividing the single crown structure into multiple functional states along the axial direction, the system allows users to access different operations (winding vs. setting) by simply pushing the crown to different positions, eliminating the need to pull out an integrated crown
2Ease of operation
If the crown is pulled out to reach the setting position, then the minute hand can be adjusted, but the risk of damage increases due to difficulty in determining the setting position by tactile means
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through tactile stops or detents that provide clear mechanical feedback to the user when the crown reaches the setting position. This feedback mechanism allows users to know precisely when the setting position is engaged through tactile sensation, eliminating the uncertainty of how far to pull or push the crown, thus preventing damage while enabling accurate minute hand setting
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic axial movement of the crown between defined positions with mechanical stops that provide tactile feedback. The crown moves from a retracted winding position to an extended setting position along the axial direction, with the movement constrained by stops that give clear tactile indication of position changes, ensuring reliable operation without damage
3Ease of operation
If the crown is pulled out with great force to reach the setting position, then the setting function can be accessed, but damage to the crown or operating device may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic axial movement where the crown is pushed rather than pulled to transition between positions. The setting position is accessed by pushing the crown axially along a controlled path with defined stops, eliminating the need for excessive force that would occur with pulling operations, thus protecting the crown and operating device from damage
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates mechanical stops or detents beforehand that cushion and limit the axial movement of the crown. These pre-positioned stops prevent the crown from being pushed beyond the intended setting position, providing mechanical protection against over-travel and potential damage to the crown or connected operating devices
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
Facilitates easier and safer operation of watches, eliminating the need to remove the watch from the wrist and providing clear tactile feedback on the position, reducing the risk of damage and improving usability for individuals with limited fine motor skills.
Implementation Method 1
drive shaft and control shaft being connected to one another via a torsionally rigid, axially movable coupling
Implementation Method 2
actuating device being movable by an axial movement from an actuating position against a restoring force into a switching position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (13) and a method for setting a minute hand and for winding a clock (10), comprising an actuating device (14) and a switching device (15), wherein the actuating device can be moved by an axial movement from an actuating position (51) against a restoring force into a switching position, wherein the switching device can be driven by means of the axial movement of the actuating device into the switching position, wherein the switching device can be moved from a winding position into an adjusting position (41) or vice versa, wherein, by means of the switching device, the actuating device can be coupled to a winding device in the winding position and to an adjusting device for a minute hand in the adjusting position, such that in the actuating position the minute hand can be adjusted or the winding device can be driven.