Wire Band Timepiece Structure for Stable Tabletop Placement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing timepieces with a single wire band face stability issues when used as a table clock, as the curved portion wobbles, and provide an uncomfortable fit when used as a wristwatch.

Innovation Solution

A band with leg portions that contact the surface when placed downward, stabilizing the timepiece and reducing contact with the barrel, combined with bows or extended bows acting as legs to support the main body.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single wire band is used to allow the timepiece to be used as both a wristwatch and a table clock, then the timepiece can be easily converted between uses, but the curved portion of the wire wobbles when placed on a flat surface making it unstable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedual use as wristwatch and table clockVSAvoidstability when placed on flat surface

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The band is divided into multiple segments including a first band portion, a second band portion, and a third band portion. The first and second band portions are engaged with bows, while the third band portion extends between them. This segmentation allows the band to function as a continuous flexible band for wristwear while providing structured support points for stable table clock placement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Device complexity

If a single wire band is used to simplify the structure, then the manufacturing is simplified, but the timepiece does not provide a comfortable fit when used as a wristwatch

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of structureVSAvoidcomfort of fit

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Different portions of the band are designed with different characteristics. The first and second band portions are engaged with bows to provide structured support, while the third band portion provides flexible extension. This local differentiation allows the band to provide comfortable fit for wristwear while maintaining structural simplicity for manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of operation

If the band is placed facing downward when used as a table clock, then the timepiece can be displayed, but the band and barrel may suffer from damage due to contact with the placement surface

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedisplay capabilityVSAvoiddamage to band and barrel

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A leg portion is introduced as an intermediary element between the band and the placement surface. The leg portion extends from the third band portion and contacts the placement surface, preventing direct contact between the band/barrel and the surface. This mediator protects the band and barrel from damage while allowing the timepiece to be displayed in a visible orientation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12569039B2Band and timepiece

Publication Date: 2026.03.10 SEIKO EPSON CORP

AI summary

Provided is a timepiece including a band, and a main body portion having a bow engaged with the band. The timepiece includes a leg portion that comes into contact with a placing surface in a vicinity of a part where the band and the bow are engaged with each other when the timepiece is placed with the band facing downward in a state in which the body part is standing.