Watch Winder Back-and-Forth Rotation for Compact Self-Winding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-winding watches require manual intervention and space-consuming winders to maintain power reserve, as they are not efficiently stimulated by continuous rotation, leading to stopped functionality if not moved for extended periods.
Innovation Solution
A compact watch winder that rotates the watch back and forth between two end positions, mimicking natural arm movements to efficiently stimulate the centrifugal mass through alternating rotation angles, thereby improving winding efficiency without the need for continuous rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If continuous rotation in a single direction is used to wind the watch, then the watch can be kept running, but the device requires lots of space and does not efficiently stimulate the centrifugal mass
Solution Approach 1:
The watch winder implements periodic back-and-forth rotation instead of continuous unidirectional rotation. The holder rotates to a first angle in a first direction, then reverses to rotate to a second angle in a second direction, creating a periodic motion pattern that efficiently winds the watch while reducing the device footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static continuous rotation to dynamic alternating rotation. The rotation direction is reversed after reaching the first angle, creating a dynamic motion pattern that better stimulates the centrifugal mass and reduces space requirements compared to continuous rotation in one direction.
2Reliability
If continuous rotation is used to maintain power reserve, then the watch remains running, but the centrifugal mass is not stimulated at its best
Solution Approach 1:
The periodic back-and-forth rotation creates alternating acceleration and deceleration phases that more effectively stimulate the centrifugal mass. This periodic motion pattern with direction reversal provides better stimulation efficiency compared to monotonic continuous rotation in one direction.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of continuing rotation in the same direction, the system inverts the rotation direction after reaching the first angle. This reversal creates a more effective stimulation pattern for the centrifugal mass by introducing directional changes that better mimic natural wrist movements.
3Reliability
If the watch is not moved for a longer period, then the clockwork stops running, but manual winding requires additional effort and time
Solution Approach 1:
The watch winder automatically winds the watch by rotating the holder back and forth, enabling the watch to service itself without requiring manual intervention. This self-winding mechanism prevents the clockwork from stopping and eliminates the need for manual winding and time setting.
Solution Approach 2:
The watch winder performs preliminary winding action before the watch power reserve is depleted. By continuously rotating the holder in alternating directions, the device maintains the mainspring tension and ensures the watch remains operational without waiting for the power reserve to run out.
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
The device ensures continuous winding of self-winding watches by simulating natural arm movements, maintaining power reserve without extensive space requirements and preventing manual intervention, enhancing the stimulation of the centrifugal mass for improved energy storage.
Implementation Method 1
A self-winding watch which is also denoted as an automatic watch comprises a centrifugal mass which becomes moved during the watch is worn at the arm of a user. Many arm movements may induce a rotation of the centrifugal mass by means of which rotation a spring may be wound up for storing such energy
Data Source
Figure 1a~3
Figure 4a~5c
Figure 6a~7b
AI summary
A device for moving a watch comprises a holder (1) for holding the watch (9) and a drive (2). The drive (2) rotates the holder (1) for less than 360° degrees into a first rotating direction (L) and subsequently rotates the holder (1) for less than 360° degrees back into a second rotating direction (M) opposite the first rotating direction (L). Such back and forth rotation enables a better winding of the watch (9).