Watch Strap Clasp Safety Device Prevents Accidental Opening

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing buckle and tongue clasps for straps or bracelets can inadvertently open due to stress, as the second strand passes through leather rings, leading to potential detachment of the bracelet.

Innovation Solution

A strap or bracelet with a clasp incorporating a safety device and an unfolding buckle mechanism that securely locks the first strand to the clasp, preventing longitudinal movement and ensuring the bracelet remains adjusted until the safety device is unlocked, and includes a push-button system for shock protection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the second strand passes through leather rings to press onto the first strand, then the bracelet can be adjusted to different sizes, but the bracelet may inadvertently open under stress

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveadjustabilityVSAvoidsecurity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The clasp is divided into separate functional components: the buckle for size adjustment, the tongue for engagement, and the safety device for securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function effectively - the buckle provides adjustability while the safety device prevents inadvertent opening.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The safety device is positioned and configured in advance to press the first strand against the clasp before any stress can cause the bracelet to open. This preliminary securing action ensures that when the bracelet is worn, the strand is already constrained and cannot slip out under stress.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If a conventional buckle and tongue are used, then the bracelet can be easily fastened and unfastened, but the push-button system is vulnerable to shocks

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefastening convenienceVSAvoidshock vulnerability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The safety device acts as a protective element that cushions the push-button system from shocks. By positioning the safety device to press against the first strand, it creates a buffer that absorbs impact forces before they can reach and damage the delicate push-button mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Ease of operation

If the strand is loosely engaged in the buckle, then the bracelet can be removed easily, but the bracelet can open accidentally during wear

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremoval easeVSAvoidaccidental opening prevention

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The safety device serves as an intermediary element between the first strand and the clasp. It mediates the connection by pressing the strand against the clasp, providing secure retention during wear while allowing easy removal when the buckle is intentionally opened. The safety device ensures that the strand remains constrained without requiring permanent fixation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8770830B2Watch strap or bracelet

Publication Date: 2014.07.08 THE SWATCH GRP RES & DEVELONMENT LTD

AI summary

The invention concerns a strap or bracelet (1) including a first strand (2) and a second strand (3). The second strand (3) is connected to a clasp (1a) that includes a fastening device (13). The fastening device (13) joins the strands (2, 3) to each other. The invention is characterized in that the clasp (1a) further includes a safety device (17) for better joining the first strand (2) to the clasp (1a) by pressing the former onto the latter.