Watch Wristlet Insert With Pivoting Latch Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing watch wristlet fastening systems are complex, expensive to produce, and prone to mechanical failure due to low friction locking mechanisms that can deform or break with repeated use.
Innovation Solution
A simple and cost-effective insert for wristlet strands that includes a rigid body with a hook-shaped portion and a latch, allowing manual locking and unlocking of the connection between the wristlet strand and the watch case without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If friction-based locking tabs are used in the housing, then the wristlet strand can be fastened to the watch case, but the locking mechanism becomes unreliable after repeated locking-unlocking cycles due to plastic deformation and breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the friction-based mechanical locking system with a latch mechanism that uses geometric interlocking and elastic deformation. The latch lever pivots on an axis and engages with a retention element through geometric constraints rather than friction, eliminating the plastic deformation problem. The elastic portion provides controlled deformation within the elastic limit, ensuring reliable engagement over many cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the locking mechanism from a friction-based system to an elastic-deformation-based system. The latch includes an elastic portion that deforms within its elastic limit during engagement and disengagement, allowing repeated cycles without permanent deformation. This parameter change from friction to elastic deformation fundamentally improves reliability and service life.
2Reliability
If a complex folded sheet metal system with multiple components is used for locking, then the wristlet can be secured, but the manufacturing process becomes difficult and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components into an integrated latch assembly. The latch lever, elastic portion, and retention element form a unified mechanism that can be manufactured as a single piece or pre-assembled unit. This integration reduces the number of separate parts, simplifies manufacturing, and lowers production costs while maintaining securing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism serves multiple functions: it secures the wristlet strand to the watch case, provides a manual release mechanism, and ensures reliable engagement through geometric interlocking. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate securing and releasing components, simplifying the overall system and reducing manufacturing complexity.
3Device complexity
If a rigid edge and friction-based tabs are used for locking, then the structure remains simple, but the locking force is insufficient and the mechanism fails after a few cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic elements to the locking mechanism, including the pivoting latch lever and the elastic portion that deforms during engagement. This dynamic behavior allows the mechanism to adapt to variations in assembly tolerances and wear, maintaining reliable locking over many cycles while keeping the overall structure relatively simple.
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 solution provides a secure, easy-to-produce, and reliable method for assembling and disassembling wristlet strands from a watch case, eliminating the risk of mechanical failure and reducing production costs.
Implementation Method 1
the latch has a length less than the length of the cavity so that when the latch is pushed manually in the direction of the hinge axis so as to release the pin in an unlocked position wherein the latch is free to pivot
Data Source
AI summary
An insert for a strand of a watch wristlet to manually lock and unlock the connection between the strand and a strip of a watch case, including a body and a latch, the body having a parallelepiped portion extended by a hook-shaped portion forming a housing for the strip, and the parallelepiped portion configured to be secured to the strand. The latch is hinged to the body to cause it to pivot around a hinge axis and includes a closing wall for closing the housing. The latch has locking means formed by a pin integral with the latch cooperating with a hole in the body and first return means to constrain the pin in the hole in a locking position. The latch has a length less than the length of the cavity so that when the latch is pushed manually in the direction of the hinge axis it releases the pin.