Watch Strap With Printed Circuit Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current connected watches compromise on aesthetic, horometric, and waterproof qualities due to the integration of electronic functions, making them unsightly and fragile, requiring careful daily use and modification of the watch case and bracelet for electrical connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A watch bracelet design featuring two printed circuit sheets with a middle part ensuring electrical continuity, allowing the watch case to remain independent while housing electronic components like microcontrollers and power sources, maintaining the watch's aesthetic and mechanical integrity while adding electronic functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electronic components are integrated into the watch case to create connected watches, then electronic functions are improved, but aesthetic quality, waterproof quality, and structural integrity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the watch system into two independent parts: the watch case (housing the movement) and the bracelet (housing electronic components). This segmentation allows each part to maintain its original design integrity while gaining additional functionality through the other component, resolving the contradiction between electronic functionality and aesthetic quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary coupling mechanism that enables electrical connection between the watch case and bracelet without modifying the watch case structure. The coupling device acts as a mediator that transfers both mechanical support and electrical signals, allowing electronic functions to be added to the bracelet while preserving the watch case's aesthetic and waterproof properties.
2Adaptability or versatility
If connectors are added to the watch case to enable electrical connection with the bracelet, then electronic functionality is improved, but device complexity and fragility increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of adding connectors to the watch case (the traditional approach), the invention inverts the solution by placing all electrical connection components within the bracelet itself. The bracelet contains the microprocessor, memory, and connection interface, eliminating the need to modify the watch case structure and reducing overall device complexity.
3Device complexity
If the bracelet contains only memory and battery without a microprocessor, then simplicity is maintained, but the bracelet becomes unusable independently
Solution Approach 1:
The bracelet is designed with a microprocessor that enables it to perform multiple functions independently (storing data, displaying information, running applications) while also maintaining compatibility with the watch case for additional functionalities. This multi-functionality allows the bracelet to stand alone as a useful device rather than being merely an accessory.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the watch case is modified to accommodate connectors and electronic components, then electronic functionality is improved, but ease of manufacture and maintenance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the electronic components into the bracelet separate from the watch case, the invention simplifies manufacturing. Each component can be manufactured independently using standard processes, then assembled through the coupling mechanism. This approach avoids complex modifications to the watch case and enables easier production and maintenance.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a band for a watch case (12) including a first arm (48) which houses a first printed circuit portion (4) and a second arm (50) which houses a second printed circuit portion (6), the first arm (48) being connected to the second arm (50) by means of a middle portion (8) which is arranged to act as a seat for the watch case (12) and includes means for providing electric continuity between the first printed circuit portion (4) and the second printed circuit portion (6), the first and second printed circuit portions (4, 6) having at least one electronic component (26, 28, 30, 32, 36) and a source of electric energy (34) which supplies the electronic component (26, 28, 30, 32, 36) with electric current.