Tool-Free Watch End Piece With Audible Locking Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing end pieces for securing parts to a bar, such as in watch bracelets, often require tools for attachment, can inadvertently detach, are not aesthetically pleasing, and are not compatible with existing watch cases, lacking user feedback on successful securing.
Innovation Solution
A user-interactive end piece with a rotating part and locking mechanism that allows tool-free attachment and detachment, featuring a channel for the bar and a locking mechanism that provides audible feedback upon successful securing, designed for miniaturization and compatibility with various watch cases, with the locking mechanism hidden from view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional end pieces are used to secure parts to a bar, then the attachment is secure, but tools are required for attachment and detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The end piece is designed to be manipulated directly by the user without requiring external tools. The rotating part can be turned by hand to engage or disengage the locking mechanism, making the system self-servicing and tool-free for attachment and detachment operations
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism incorporates a rotating part that can dynamically transition between locked and unlocked positions. This rotational movement allows the user to easily switch between attachment and detachment states through simple hand manipulation, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity
2Reliability
If traditional end pieces are used, then attachment is possible, but inadvertent detachment can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism incorporates audible feedback through the interaction of the lever and cam profile. When the rotating part is properly positioned in the locked state, a distinct clicking sound is produced, providing the user with clear feedback that the attachment is secure and preventing inadvertent detachment by confirming the locked position
3Ease of operation
If visible locking mechanisms are used, then locking function is clear, but aesthetic appearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is extracted from the visible exterior and concealed within the interior structure of the end piece. The rotating part, lever, and cam are positioned so that they are not visible when the end piece is attached to the bar, while still providing audible feedback for locking status, thus resolving the contradiction between visibility and aesthetics
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing end piece designs are used, then attachment function is provided, but compatibility with existing watch cases is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The end piece is designed with universal compatibility features that allow it to be adapted to various existing watch case designs. The channel dimensions and locking mechanism can be configured to work with different bar sizes and case structures, making the end piece versatile across multiple watch models without requiring complex custom integration for each case type
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
Enables secure, tool-free attachment and detachment of parts to a bar without risking inadvertent detachment, while being aesthetically pleasing and compatible with existing watch cases, providing user confirmation of successful securing through audible feedback.
Implementation Method 1
a second locking element (16) located opposite and/or in contact with the second surface (S2), wherein upon rotation of the rotating part, the relative position between the second surface (S2) and the second locking element (16) changes
Data Source
AI summary
An end piece arranged to be detachably fixed to a bar, the end piece including: a groove intended to house the bar; a rotating part able to pivot about an axis parallel to the bar between a locking position, in which the rotating part prevents the bar from leaving the groove, and a release position, in which the rotating part allows the bar to be respectively introduced into or extracted from the groove; and a locking mechanism arranged to block the rotation of the rotating part. This end piece can be handled by the user, who can fix it to a bar and detach it from the bar without requiring any tooling.