Watch Strap Connecting Apparatus with Integrated Slider Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watch strap connection methods, such as those using hook pins, are inconvenient for replacement and can scratch the watch or strap during separation.
Innovation Solution
A connecting apparatus for a watch strap featuring a tube with protruding pins, a spring for elasticity, and a slider that allows for easy separation without a specific tool, minimizing exposure and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hook pin is used to separate the watch strap from the watch, then the watch strap can be separated from the watch, but the separation work becomes inconvenient and the watch or watch strap may be scratched
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the separation function from the traditional hook pin mechanism. Instead of using a separate hook pin tool, the release button is integrated directly into the connecting apparatus, allowing the user to separate the strap by simply pressing the release button, which triggers the pin to retract and release the strap without requiring external tools that could cause scratches
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting apparatus is designed to be self-operating. The release button is connected to the pin through a spring mechanism, allowing the user to activate the separation function by simply pressing the button. The spring automatically pushes the pin out when the button is released, eliminating the need for external separation tools and reducing the risk of scratches to the watch or strap
2Ease of manufacture
If a traditional connection mechanism is used, then the watch strap can be connected to the watch, but the connection mechanism is exposed and the aesthetic appearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by placing the connecting apparatus, including the pins and spring mechanism, inside a tube that is positioned within the lug structure. The release button is integrated into the tube assembly, allowing all connection components to be nested within the lug rather than exposed on the outside, thus maintaining aesthetic appearance while preserving the connection function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a tube structure to enclose the connection mechanism. This tubular housing acts as a protective shell that conceals the pins and spring mechanism from external view, allowing the connection apparatus to be hidden within the lug structure while still functioning properly, thereby improving the aesthetic appearance without complicating the manufacturing process
3Reliability
If a complex separation tool is used, then the separation function can be achieved, but the device complexity increases and user operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the separation function into the existing connection apparatus. The release button is integrated with the pin and spring mechanism that are already part of the connection system. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate separation tools and reduces overall device complexity while maintaining reliable separation functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: it connects the strap to the watch using the pin and spring mechanism, and it also enables separation through the integrated release button. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate connection and separation tools, reducing device complexity and making the system easier to operate
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 convenient replacement and maintenance of watch straps without tools, improving aesthetic appearance by preventing exposure of the connection mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a spring disposed between the first pin and the second pin, providing elasticity to the first pin in a first direction, and providing elasticity to the second pin in a second direction that is an opposite direction to the first direction
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a connecting apparatus for a watch strap that enables a user to simply replace a watch strap without a separation tool, and a watch strap with the connecting apparatus. The connecting apparatus connects a body of a watch and a watch strap, and includes at least: a tube having a first hole; a first pin inserted in and being able to protrude from a first end of the tube; a second pin inserted in and being able to protrude from a second end of the tube; a spring disposed between the first and second pins, providing elasticity to the first and second pins, in first and second directions, respectively; a protrusive member connected to the first pin and protruding through the first hole; and a slider connected to the protrusive member, moving the first pin in the second direction, and having a portion overlapping the first hole.