Watch Strap Snap-Fit System with Spring-Loaded Blade and Ramp Guide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watch strap fastening systems are complex, difficult to use, and prone to damaging the watch case when changing straps, with many requiring specialized tools and causing scratches.
Innovation Solution
A flexible blade actuation system with a push button mechanism that allows easy clipping and unclipping of the strap, using a ramp for guided extraction and elastic means to absorb stress, ensuring the system is simple, safe, and suitable for thin bracelets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If spring-loaded spring bars are used to attach the strap, then the attachment mechanism is simple, but the pins scratch the inside of the lugs during insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing a ramp surface on the insert that guides the bar into the cage before the locking mechanism engages. This ramp ensures proper alignment and positioning of the bar within the cage prior to locking, preventing misalignment that would cause scratching during insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary element - the ramp surface - that mediates between the bar and the cage. This ramp acts as a guiding interface that controls the insertion motion, ensuring the bar enters the cage smoothly and correctly positioned, thereby eliminating direct harmful contact that would cause scratches.
2Ease of operation
If pins are pushed outwards by a spring for automatic attachment, then simplicity is achieved, but the pins cannot be independently positioned and may become blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the attachment function into separate elements: the bar with its two ends can be independently inserted into the cage, and the locking mechanism operates separately from the insertion process. This segmentation allows each pin (bar end) to be positioned independently while maintaining automatic attachment through the spring-loaded locking system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamics by making the locking mechanism movable rather than fixed. The locking element can dynamically adjust its position along the bar, allowing independent positioning of each bar end while maintaining the spring-loaded automatic locking function. This dynamic capability prevents blocking by accommodating variations in insertion timing and positioning.
3Extent of automation
If a complex tongue structure with folding zones is used for automatic attachment, then automatic attachment is achieved, but the construction becomes complicated and requires precise adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential automatic attachment function from the complex folded tongue structure and implements it through a simpler mechanism: a bar inserted into a cage with a locking system. This extraction removes the unnecessary folding zones and complex geometry while retaining the automatic attachment capability through spring-loaded locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by designing a mechanism where the spring automatically performs the locking action without requiring complex folded structures or precise manual adjustments. The spring-loaded system self-activates upon insertion, and the ramp surface guides the bar into correct positioning automatically, eliminating the need for complex pre-adjusted folding zones.
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 quick and easy strap exchange without damaging the watch case, maintaining safety and stability while being compact and easy to implement, suitable for various materials and activities.
Implementation Method 1
elastic means, for example a spring, capable of absorbing stress and of returning the flexible blade into its initial position
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
The system for attaching a variable element (1), such as a bracelet, to a fixed object, such as a watch case, includes at least means for attaching said element to the fixed object. The attachment means include a spring-loaded blade (31) and a button (32) for actuating the blade, said blade (31) allowing the attachment system to be closed.