Mechanical Watch Tracking Module Embedded in Strap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tracking systems for valuable items like watches and jewelry are impractical due to the difficulty in integrating tracking devices into mechanical watches without compromising their functionality or aesthetics, and existing solutions are easily removable by thieves.
Innovation Solution
A discreet tracking module integrated into mechanical watches, comprising a microprocessor, transmitter, and battery, which can be embedded within components like gears, the bezel, or watch strap, using minimal power and designed to be difficult to detect, allowing for wireless tracking and location determination via a mobile app.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wireless tracking device is added to a mechanical watch, then tracking capability is improved, but the watch becomes easily identifiable and removable by thieves
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device is merged with the watch's mechanical components, with the transmitter integrated into the movement and the battery housed within the watch case. This integration makes the tracking device indistinguishable from legitimate watch components, preventing thieves from easily identifying and removing it.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery is nested within the hollowed-out link of the watch strap, while the transmitter is embedded within the watch movement. This nested arrangement conceals the tracking components within the existing watch structure, making them difficult to detect and remove.
2Reliability
If a tracking device is integrated into a mechanical watch, then tracking capability is improved, but the aesthetic and functional integrity of the timepiece is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking components are integrated into specific, non-visible areas of the watch: the transmitter is placed within the movement (hidden behind the dial) and the battery is housed in the hollowed-out link of the strap. This localized integration maintains the aesthetic appearance of the watch while incorporating tracking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery is extracted from the traditional watch case and relocated to the hollowed-out link of the watch strap. This extraction allows the watch case to maintain its original aesthetic design while the tracking functionality is preserved through the relocated battery and integrated transmitter.
3Reliability
If a tracking device is added to a mechanical watch, then tracking capability is improved, but the device becomes more complex and difficult to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device is segmented into distinct functional components: a transmitter integrated into the movement, a battery housed in the hollowed-out link, and a control circuit board. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and tested separately before final assembly, reducing overall manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmitter is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides tracking capability, can be triggered by impact or manipulation, and integrates with the watch's existing mechanical components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, simplifying the overall design.
Data Source
AI summary
A mechanical watch includes an internal tracking module. The tracking module includes a transmitter, a microprocessor, and optionally a GPS module and a power source. The components of the tracking module are integrated into the watch by embedding them within one or more components of the mechanical watch. If a watch is lost or stolen, the tracking module may be actuated to provide location data over a network to a software application. To conserve power, the tracking module only actively receives and/or transmits signals periodically during intermittent windows of time.